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World News

Christian FA coach on Euro 2016: Players should use "gift that God's given them"

by Hannah Tooley

The competition kicked-off in France earlier in the month but has been plagued by fan violence.

Keith Hammond, director of Christians in Football and FA coach, told Premier's News Hour that people need to get into the "right spirit".

PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo
PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo
PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo
PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo

He said: "From my Christian view, we want to see players playing in the right spirit and enjoying it and just doing their best, fulfilling the gift that God's given them."

He was speaking before England's 2-1 victory over Wales in Lens; French police arrested 36 people after violence erupted in the streets of nearby, Lille ahead of the clash.

14 Britons were detained in the city on Wednesday night after flares and bangers were lit as officers charged at chanting fans, spraying tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowds.

Keith Hammond said he wants football teams to respect each other during the games

He said: "Whoever wins, they'll be honourable to each other and we want each of the fans to be very honourable."

He urged Christians to pray for all of those involved in the games.

Listen to Premier's Alex Williams speak to Keith Hammond here:

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