An ex-QPR player from Sydenham has become president of GSM London’s Student Union.

Elliot Cox hung up his studs for a business degree at the college based in Greenwich and Greenford and hasn’t looked back.

The 25-year-old was forced to stop playing because of a serious injury and made his decision to return to education.

He spent five years after being released by QPR playing in the non-league as a semi-professional footballer for clubs such as Hastings United, Maidstone United, Margate and VCD Athletic.

He said: “When If you look at it statistically, the majority of players do not always make it, even though many of them are fantastic players.

“I did not want to come across as a one-trick pony with my only training linked to sport. I wanted to show my versatility in pursuing something else.

“Being at GSM London has really helped to boost my confidence too. The lecturers have been really supportive.

“Through the course, I have learnt to give presentations, gained management skills, participated in group tasks – and activities like this have helped to force me out of my comfort zone.

“I have always taken an interest in marketing and consulting and business strategy and these transferable skills will be invaluable as I plan to start my own business in the future.”