A FOOTBALL fanatic faces a long road to Wembley over the next nine months, as he bids to follow teams through every round.

Starting with the Runcorn Linnets, Richard Knowles aims to follow the winner of each tie until the final next May.

The 35-year-old, from Frodsham, has been planning his campaign with his brother for several years, and aims to raise around £5,000 for Cancer Research in the process.

He started on Saturday with the Extra Preliminary round against AFC Emley at Wincham Park, Northwich – which the Linnets won 4-1 – and will follow the winning team in each round until the final.

Richard dreamed up the idea with his brother, Robert, in 2005 but has only now put his plans into reality – although, due to the birth of his first son, Robert is unable to join him until later in the campaign.

Richard, who will be paying all his own expenses, is hoping the campaign gathers momentum along the way.

He said: “Like many people, cancer has had a direct impact on my life, as my father died when my brother and I were very young. He was a great footballer and this seems an appropriate way to raise money.”