A FORMER Teesside University student is helping to keep promising footballers in top condition.

Kirsty Gibbon went from a first class degree to the Premier League after joining the physiotherapy team at Middlesbrough Football Club.

The 24-year-old had previously worked in physiotherapy with South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Durham County Cricket Club, while also having a part-time role with Boro. Her new role involves working with the Academy’s young players who may one day go on to join the professional ranks of the club’s first team.

“They’re the players of the future, so it’s great to have a role in their development,” she said. “It’s brilliant working at the club at such as exciting time.”