Watford captain Troy Deeney has set up his own charitable foundation to help children with learning disabilities or life-limiting illnesses.

The 28-year-old's first project is to build a multi-purpose sports area at Garston Manor School, whose students are aged between 11 and 16 and all have autism and other learning disabilities.

The Hornets skipper said he set up the Troy Deeney Foundation with wife Stacey because they believe every child deserves the chance to lead a normal life and be given the same opportunities despite their circumstances.

The new website says: "There is nothing more important to me than my children. Through playing football, I've been fortunate enough to be able to provide them with a start in life that I never had myself when I grew up on a council estate in Birmingham.

"Back then I was lucky enough for someone to believe in me and give me an opportunity on the football field which ultimately gave me a focus and turned my life around.

Watford Observer:

"My wife Stacey and I want to use our fortunate position to pass on this belief and opportunity to children with learning disabilities and life-limiting illness, in the hope that we can make a difference to their lives.

"We hope you can join us in our journey to raise money and awareness for this cause and we thank you for your support."

Deeney grew up on a council estate in Birmingham, and was expelled from school with no qualifications.

His troubles off the pitch earlier in his career are well documented; he served a three-month spell in prison back in 2012 for his part in a brawl in Birmingham.

He was in the spotlight again last week after an incident at a nightclub in his hometown.

The foundation's first event will be a golf day at The Grove in April. Deeney has donated the first £3,000, ten per cent of the target, and so far a further £200 has been raised.

For more information visit the website.