Footballers have always prompted much debate in their choice of relaxation away from the pitch.

 

The almost unique nature of the sport often leaves its employees with plenty of time on their hands in an afternoon and evening after the rigours of a morning training session.

 

Many moons ago the odd player or two probably chose to pass some of those hours away in a pub or card school.

 

No longer possible.

 

The change in emphasis of the sport and arrival of more scientific means of on and off field preparation ensures the custodians of the modern-day game have to keep themselves in tip top condition even when not spending time at the training ground.

 

Golf remains a popular pastime, perhaps pool or snooker, and indeed an afternoon at the races for the odd one or two.

 

And the advent of modern technology means hooking up on interactive games consoles from the comfort of their own homes is another way of whiling away free time and continuing the spirit of fierce competition away from the 'office'.

 

For several members of the Wolves team however, sanctuary has arrived in the form of music and, one musical instrument in particular.

 

Yes, the grand old guitar has become a source of relaxation away from the otherwise high-profile existence, none more so than the current Wolves skipper.

 

Because while Karl Henry has been in impressive form pulling the strings in midfield this season - he's also been doing the same off the pitch as well.

 

Karl has been brushing up on improving his guitar-playing skills under the watchful eye of Wolves press officer and contemporary folk singer John "Fozzie" Hendley.

 

There's unlikely to be a Christmas single in the pipeline, but Karl is certainly enjoying a bit of 'jamming' in his spare time.

 

"I started playing when I was 16 after a mate of mine Matthew Johnson had a guitar," says Karl.

 

"He showed me a few chords and I learned a few songs and it just went on from there.

 

"But then when I found out Fozzie played a bit I thought it was time to take it to a new level!

 

"He's been helping me with the finger style which is improving my all-round playing.

 

"Fozzie's been great - I reckon he's the Eric Clapton of Molineux!

 

"It's just something I do to relax if I've got a bit of free time at home.

 

"If I'm there on my own I'll just grab the guitar and burst into song - I hope the neighbours don't mind!"

 

And if they do, which songs will they now know all the words to?!

 

"I've got a few favourites, Eagle Eye Cherry, Oasis and Bob Marley - I like a bit of No Woman No Cry," adds Karl.

 

"I've not played it in the dressing room or anything like that, I'm not sure the boys are ready for me yet.

 

"Neill Collins and Darren Potter claim they can do a bit but I don't think they've got the same dedication as me!"

 

Fozzie, in his tenth year of employment at Wolves, has almost three decades of experience running successful folk clubs in Wolverhampton and is himself a contemporary folk singer and guitarist.

 

Happy to help out in the odd spare minute after training, he's been impressed with the captain's tuneful talents!

 

"I was happy to help when Karl found out that I played," he explains.

 

"I was surprised at how good he was on the guitar.

 

"He's got all the basic skills and has obviously been prepared to work hard at it.

 

"Although he's fine with the plectrum strumming the guitar he wanted to work on his finger-picking which is using the nails of your right hand to pluck at the individual strings.

 

"Every so often he brings his guitar in so I can give him another lesson after training.

 

"Over the last few weeks he's obviously been practising hard because he's getting better and better."

 

The only thing left to wonder is whether Karl is able to help out Fozzie with anything in return?

 

"He has offered me some hints on how to break play down in the midfield," adds Fozzie.

 

"But sadly the years have taken the toll on this athletic body and I've had to decline his kind suggestion!"

 

* THERE'S a rather special e-mail musical surprise in store for Wolves fans over the next few weeks, with a Christmas flavour. Anyone wishing to receive the e-mail can simply send their name and supporter number to data@wolves.co.uk.  Fans without supporter numbers can e-mail their name, address, telephone number and e-mail address to receive the surprise.