“I Owe It All To Mum”

All my achievements both on and off a football pitch I credit to my mother. She has been my role model and the inspiration behind Football for Peace. “She suffered a lot from inequality and political persecution but her bravery while bringing me up empowered me to break down barriers and achieve my dreams. My aim through Football for Peace is to help others to do the same.

“Sport is not a magical wand for world peace but when you play in a team you soon learn that if you don’t work together and pass the ball you never move up the pitch. You respect your opponents, understanding them and their differences.

“My team mates soon had to get used to seeing me praying before a match. Some used to sneer but now they understand and respect my faith. Policitians