Crystal Palace star Fraizer Campbell has recalled his own hard journey through football to inspire the next generation and celebrate the role of the game in changing lives.

The striker was joined by Eagles legend John Salako at an event to mark the work of the Prince’s Trust Football Initiative, a scheme delivered by the Crystal Palace FC Foundation.

Held at Selhurst Park on Wednesday, the initiative was celebrating 18 years and the 25,000 youngsters helped in that time.

This time round, 20 young people listened to Campbell and Salako’s talk on “what football taught me”.

They were also treated to a talk from Prince’s Trust alumni and Crystal Palace FC Foundation coach Emmanuel Nwanze on his own journey to becoming a football coach.

Campbell said: “There have been many tough points throughout my development as a footballer and there is a certain element of ‘unknown’ when you pursue a career in sport.

Wimbledon Times:

“I want to give inspiration to these youngsters, who may have grown up in difficult circumstances, to meet any challenge with courage and determination.

“The Crystal Palace FC Foundation do fantastic work in our surrounding community and partnered with The Prince’s Trust, provide a great support network for youngsters to realise their potential through sport.”

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With the ongoing support of the Premier League and the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), the initiative works with more than 40 Premier League and Football League clubs helping young people develop their confidence, motivation and team working skills.

Gordon Taylor OBE, the chief executive of the PFA, said: “Today’s event is a chance for young people to meet players but it’s something that inspires both parties.

“For the young people it’s a chance to find out how their heroes coped with difficulties, and came through.

“And for the players, it’s a chance to find out more about the challenges facing today’s youngsters and how football can help them overcome obstacles.”

For more information on the Crystal Palace FC Foundation go to cpfcfoundation.org.

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