President Danny Faure met English football legend, Mr Robbie Fowler, at State House this morning. Mr Fowler is in Seychelles as part of a promotional campaign by Barclays Bank around the English Premier League.

President Faure congratulated Mr Fowler on his prolific career as a professional footballer, and thanked him for visiting Seychelles and working with the community to increase interest in the game. The President described football as a phenomenon that not only unites people, but unites families, and inspires values of tolerance and inclusion. President Faure shared how football is an activity that brings his own family together.

The President encouraged Mr Fowler to continue inspiring young people to work hard to follow their dreams, and motivate them to remain focused.

Mr Fowler explained how professional football requires a tremendous amount of dedication, sacrifice and practice, and said that he hopes the current generation continues to engage with the sport. He shared his professional journey with the President, and his pride at being capped for England 26 times.

Robbie Fowler is the sixth-highest goalscorer in the history of the English Premier League. He officially retired from playing professional football in 2012.