Footballer Khano Smith gave words of encouragement to fellow Bermudians who are hospital-bound in the United States.

Mr. Smith from Warwick, who is a midfielder for the New England Revolution, visited Callan Woolridge at the Spalding Rehabilitation Hospital and Network on Wednesday afternoon.

After a serious motorcycle accident landed Mr. Woolridge, a defender for Crossroads Warriors, in the hospital three weeks ago the visit on Wednesday by Mr. Smith was an inspiring encounter.

"Seeing Khano was great. He was really down to earth. It makes me think about playing again. I can't wait to get back to my team and back on the pitch," he said.

Mr. Woolridge has been in the hospital, which is in Boston, Massachusetts since about September 11 and is expected to be back on the Island today.

His doctor, Heechin Chae, the TBI Medical Director said the hospitalised defender was making a strong recovery and the visit from Mr. Smith was a huge help.

"Callan has made great strides since his admission working with our entire rehabilitation team," he said, "A visit from someone like Khano Smith helps to lift his sports even more and give him a boost during his treatments."

While at the hospital, Mr. Smith also visited several patients on the Spaulding Pediatric Unit, and the player who joined the New England team in 2005, was busy preparing for his next match yesterday.

Timothy Sullivan, the hospital's communications manager, added: "Khano was excited to meet Callan and came directly from practice to meet him. He also took time to visit with several patients in the Spaulding Pediatric Unit."

"Callan has worked diligently every day with his medical team to get back his strength, agility and work on his cognitive skills.

"He's made tremendous progress and will be heading home to Bermuda this Friday from Boston. Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital is proud to have developed a strong relationship with the Bermuda medical community and has treated many patients over several years."