BOLTON boxer Conor McMyler found himself top of the bill at an exclusive training session with boxer Anthony Crolla weeks before the world champion makes the first defence of his world title.

McMyler is a member of 'Crolla's Army' who were put through their paces by the fighter during a friendly sparring session in the countdown to their own big sporting challenge when they line up in the Great Manchester Run on Sunday, May 22.

Crolla, who trains at Gloves Gym in Bolton under the guidance of coach Joe Gallagher, took time out from the build-up to his WBA lightweight world title bout against Venezuela's Ismael Barroso at the Manchester Arena on Saturday, May 7, to give a personal pep talk to the Horwich teenager.

Crolla has hand-picked 12 runners – one for each round of a professional boxing bout and all of whom have personal reasons for taking part in the 10k run.

Crolla has been McMyler's idol since the apprentice car mechanic sparred with him at Gloves a couple of years ago and it was his determination and ambition which set him apart and made Crolla pick him as one of the 12.

"You could tell then what a good boxer Anthony was and it was great to meet up with him again to talk about boxing. I'm thrilled to be running with him in the Great Manchester Run as part of 'Crolla's Army'.

"I'd like to turn professional one day and look up to Anthony for what he's achieved in the ring. My parents have done the Manchester 10k but I've only been there as a spectator."

Crolla said: "The Great Manchester Run is one of the greatest sporting events in the city. Just taking part as one of the 40,000 runners and being cheered through the city centre by thousands of supporters is incredible, but to have my own team is amazing.

"I've picked 12 runners with a strong personal reason for being part of ‘Crolla’s Army’ who are committed to making this year’s Great Manchester Run their greatest ever run.

"I take inspiration from my team of runners. Some have made big changes in their lives to get fit while others are raising money and awareness for important causes and in memory of loved ones.

"I'm now stepping up my preparations to defend my world title so am giving ‘Crolla’s Army’ a flavour of the kind of training I’m doing. They look focused to take on the challenge and I hope to be celebrating a successful defence of my world title when I join them on the start line on Sunday, May 22."

To enter the Great Manchester Run go to www.greatrun.org/Manchester.