YOUNG football fans learned the language of the beautiful game when they attended a special session with Bolton Wanderers stars at the Reebok Stadium.

Playing for Success staged its hugely popular Go Global Language and Culture event, which helps youngsters learn more about the international links between the town and the players Children from Tonge Moor Primary, Chorley New Road, Ladybridge High School, Canon Slade, Pikes Lane and SS Peter and Paul’s CE Primary met up with players Marcos Alonso, Tim Ream, David Ngog, Marvin Sordell and Medo Kamara, who were representing Spain, America, France and Sierra Leone. The pupils had a chance to try out their own language skills but also learn about the culture, tradition and food from the players’ homelands. Alonso said: “The children asked me what inspired me to be a footballer and I told them I always wanted to play in the Premiere League. I also told them I like other sports like tennis. Bolton is great but the weather is better in Madrid!”

Sordell added: “It’s really good to take time to speak to all the children about different countries. They wanted to know how long I have been playing football and I told them since I was five years old.

“Footballers are seen as role models and it is great to give time back to the kids.”

Jack Smith, aged 13, said: “It was a good experience meeting the players and made languages fun.”

Ellie Kinsella, aged nine, added: “I had fun playing the games and trying the food from different countries.”

Katie Oaks, aged nine added: “I enjoyed the Spanish bingo and the French song.

“I liked learning about foods from other countries and wish lessons at school were like today’s ‘class’.”

Neil West, assistant manager for Playing for Success, which works with schools to enrich the curriculum, said: “The Go Global Language and Culture event was hugely successful.

“The event is aimed at encouraging pupils to learn languages at school and show how Bolton is part of the global community.”