ASTON Villa's expensive signing Stan Collymore has to wear specially-designed boots - at ?2,500-a-pair - to combat flat feet.
The ?7 million striker has had five pairs made at kit manufacturer Diadora's factory in Venice as part of a five-year ?2 million sponsorship deal.
And as Stan the man tries to kick-start his career at Villa Park after his move from Liverpool, the Midland club's kitman, Jim Paul is leaving nothing to chance.
'If Stan's boots are damaged he just cannot step into another pair. they simply wouldn't suit his feet so that's why we get five pairs at a time for him. That covers training, practice matches and first-team games,' Paul said.
'It may seem a bit excessive but we have a quality player and an investment to protect.' Collymore, though, is not making flat feet or special boots an excuse for what is perceived by others as a poor start.
'I am finding my feet with the team and slowly but surely getting back to my best form. I had flat feet at Liverpool and it didn't stop me scoring goals with Robbie Fowler,' the striker said.
