Lidl UK have unveiled details of their partnership with the Football Association as Lead Partner for the FA Skills Programme.

Lidl UK, who is also Official Supermarket of the England Team, has unveiled a comprehensive programme of activity that will help build on the successes of the FA Skills Programme to date.

The Lidl UK backed coaching initiative will deliver football to 5-11 years olds of all abilities as part of the supermarket chain’s multi-million pound investment which will provide 1.2 million opportunities in England for boys and girls to take part in the sport.

Ryan McDonnell, Lidl UK Purchasing Director, said: “This is a fantastic initiative that allows Lidl to get involved in grassroots football, giving boys and girls the opportunity to immerse themselves in the game.”

Sir Trevor Brooking, who was one of the driving forces behind the introduction of the programme in 2007 during his time as Director of Football Development at The FA, welcomed the partnership: “FA Skills has gone from strength to strength – to have arrived at 8 million places is immense and with Lidl now supporting the programme, there is the potential to push on even more.

“FA Skills encourages children to be more active and develop their football skills but also helps them develop their life and social skills – helping to develop qualities that they can also draw on back in the classroom – confidence, decision making and team building.”

Martin Glenn, CEO of The FA, added: “Lidl joined us at an exciting time as we focus our efforts on supporting the grassroots movement through better facilities and coaching.

“Their investment supports us in providing professional coaching in a fun, safe and progressive environment, increasing participation among home grown talent at this exciting time for English football.”