City defender Zesh Rehman is set to launch his own football foundation.

Rehman will unveil the project at Valley Parade next month – and has the full backing of the club as well as other football-based organisations.

“I’ve had great support from the PFA, Red Card, Kick it Out, help from people in mentoring and a whole host of others who want to get on board,” said Rehman. “But the key thing is providing opportunities for young kids.

“The club have been fantastic. They have provided me with the facility in which to launch it and anything I have needed they have been very helpful – I’m sure if I needed the pitch or other facilities they would be there.”

The aim of the foundation is not only to encourage youngsters to participate in football, it also aims to help them with life skills, and it is not restricted to sport.

Rehman said: “It’s here to provide opportunities to get into sport, to get off the streets, help them to become good people with good habits.

“It’s also about communication skills, a healthy diet and trying to get them more active. Whether they just want somewhere to play or to get their coaching badges, the foundation will help.” Rehman is keen to stress the scheme will welcome young people from all backgrounds.

“People have the idea it’s just aimed at Asians but it’s all-inclusive. It’s something that I’m passionate about, I want to give back to the next generation.

“We hope this will take them away from potential problems they may face or get into. The aims are to create positive people in society.

“They will have somewhere to go and be productive rather than waste their days.”