New Love Island bombshell Tom reveals he’s secretly pals with Strictly star and controversial footballer

LOVE Island bombshell Tom Clare has revealed his surprise connection to an ex-Premier League footballer.

The 23-year-old is the striker and top scorer for non-league side Macclesfield FC whose director of football is ex Wales International and Strictly Come Dancing star Robbie Savage, 48.

Revealing his friendship with Robbie, who is also a BT Sport pundit, Tom said: “Robbie Savage is the director of my football team. I just have such a good relationship with him. I see him as a mate.”

Former Leicester City and Birmingham City midfielder Robbie racked up 538 club appearances in his career and was known for his strong challenges and fiery temper.

After retiring he starred in the 2011 series of Strictly Come Dancing where he was partnered with Ola Jordan.

In 2020 he took on a huge challenge reviving the fortunes of cash-strapped Macclesfield, who had dropped out of the football league after going into administration.

With the help of pal Rob Smethurst’s millions, they renovated the ground and built a health club and bar on site to help generate additional income for the club.

The entire process, with all its ups and downs, was caught on camera for BBC documentary From the Ashes.

Surprisingly, the club gave star player Tom permission to take part in the show.

For the first time ever, viewers have the chance to vote for the first bombshell to go in and it’s between Tom or stunning law firm administrator Ellie Spence, 25,

Despite the fact he might not get chosen, Tom’s club are incredibly supportive, giving him permission to take part in the show and insisting the door is open for his return thanks to his “loyalty” to the team.

A Macclesfield FC statement read: “Macclesfield FC can confirm that the club have granted Tom Clare an extended period of leave in order to appear in this year’s Love Island competition.

“Tom approached us with the request a number of weeks ago and we were happy to show the same loyalty that he has to us since becoming one of our first-ever signings back in 2021.

“Despite the fact that we are disappointed to lose a player of Tom’s calibre for the foreseeable future, we also recognise the incredible opportunity that this represents for both him and his family on a personal level.

“Tom remains very much part of our plans here at the Leasing.com Stadium and has expressed his unwavering desire to return to the club after the show.

“We wish Tom every success and look forward to welcoming him back to the club in due course.”