Geoff Hurst and Paul Merson record good luck messages for Maidstone United Raiders while attending Community Shield match between Liverpool and Crystal Palace

World Cup winner Geoff Hurst and former Arsenal star Paul Merson have sent good luck messages to Maidstone United’s pan-disability footballers.

The pair wished the Raiders well while attending Sunday’s Community Shield match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool at Wembley Stadium.

Hurst, whose hat-trick against West Germany led England to World Cup glory in 1966, said: “Hi, it’s Sir Geoff Hurst here, and I want to wish Maidstone United Raiders all the very best for next season.

“Get stuck in, enjoy this great sport of ours.

“All the best from me.”

Merson won two league championships with Arsenal and these days works as a Sky Sports pundit.

He said: “Hi Maidstone Raiders, Paul Merse here.

“I just want to wish you all the best for the upcoming season.

“I hope you do well, listen to your coaches and, most importantly, enjoy it. I wish you all the best. Take care everybody.”

Lorraine Humm, who runs Maidstone United Raiders, attended the Community Shield where the National Grassroots Awards were taking place.

She also met the likes of John Barnes, who sang her his Italia 90 rap, as well as new Match of the Day host Mark Chapman and former England Women’s international Sue Smith.

Humm, who won the keeping football positive award last year, was on this year’s judging panel.

The Raiders have 22 teams of all ages and physical and mental impairments.