DAVE KITSON: My manifesto to rescue the PFA... I'll hold an election every five years, forge a stronger connection with players and provide fresh leadership to overhaul this outdated organisation and create a union we can all be proud of

As a professional footballer whose 15-year career stretched from the non-League to the Premier League and all points in between, I have experienced first-hand the full range of emotions, challenges and demands attached to playing the game and, inevitably, giving it up.

I consider myself well placed to give insight and informed opinion on the issues confronting current and former professional players at all levels. I have come to learn that we all need our union — and now more than ever — to help us cope with the vicissitudes of life throughout and after our careers.