PREMIERSHIP footballers battling relegation have been entertaining fans off the pitch.

The Middlesbrough squad has already topped last seasons record breaking 374 community appearances and is set to top the 400-mark by the end of the season.

Boros widespread community activities included time spent in the classrooms with the clubs own educational programmes, charity launches, health promotions, hospital visits and work against racism.

Players who have regularly given up their own spare-time to make a difference in the local community include David Wheater, Stewart Downing, Tony McMahon, Emanuel Pogatetz, Ross Turnbull, Andrew Taylor, Josh Walker, Julio Arca and Jeremie Aliadiere.

Gareth Southgate, first team manager, said: "Going out into the community isnt easy when results aren't going for you so Im delighted that the players have continued to take seriously the role they can play for all manner of good causes."