Aberdeen and Scotland legend Alex McLeish took time out today from preparation for the new Premier League season with Birmingham City to send a personal message to players taking part in the Aberdeen International Football Festival.
The Birmingham City manager was speaking following the launch of a Grampian Police campaign that will run throughout this years tournament and is designed to combat substance abuse, racism and promote road safety.
Police officers will give talks and demonstrations and will be on hand at Balgownie at various points throughout this week and are more than happy to respond to any questions from players or to have a chat.
Speaking last night, Alex McLeish said:
"The Aberdeen International Football Festival has gone from strength to strength over the last 30 years, attracting clubs from all over the world. It is fitting that the 30th anniversary should be used to promote messages against racism and underage drinking.
And the former Scotland manager added: "There is simply no place for racism in the game and I'm pleased to see young people are being given the right advice about how to conduct themselves.
"Becoming a professional footballer is more competitive than ever and the physical demands required to make it in the game mean that kids need to look after themselves and make healthy lifestyle choices.
"Young people cannot be expected to be taken seriously as athletes if they go about getting drunk or using racist language. Having the right attitude is key to making a success of yourself whether it's in football or any other walk of life.
“Football is crying out for young players to be the future of football. There's an opportunity provided they dedicate themselves to the sport and avoid the pitfalls.”
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