HUDDERSFIELD TOWN chairman Dean Hoyle has sent a personal message of support to British troops serving in Afghanistan.

Mr Hoyle, interviewed on Afghan-based forces radio station BFBS, told the troops: “You guys do a fantastic job.”

Mr Hoyle was quizzed by radio presenter and Town fan Mike Howarth on the club’s promotion, the future of star striker Jordan Rhodes and prospects for the new season.

Asked if he had a message for the troops, Mr Hoyle said: “You guys are thousands of miles away from home, it’s so remote, but believe you me, you are not forgotten about.

“We had three guys killed from Huddersfield and that really, really hits home.

“We had a service at the football club and invited family and friends down.

“That really hit home and brought more support than you can ever imagine. We think about you all the time.

“You are doing a sterling job. It’s a job I would not be brave enough to do. Thanks a lot to them all.”

Mr Hoyle was also asked about his all-time favourite Town players.

He picked out marauding right-back Malcolm Brown and striker Marcus Stewart but said hot property Rhodes wasn’t far away.

He described Rhodes, who has been attracting the attention of Premier League clubs, as not just a great player but a “cracking lad” as well.

He added: “He is a fine example to anyone who wants to get on in life. He gives credit to everybody but himself.”

Asked if Rhodes would be leaving the Galpharm Stadium this summer, Mr Hoyle said: “There are all sorts of rumours but we all want Jordan to stay.

“If he leaves it is going to be for the right money. Will someone pay that money when he only has League One experience? I’m not sure. He is 22 and has time on his side.