Ricardo Gardner wants to help forge links between Bolton Wanderers and the Caribbean.

The Jamaica international has been granted a testimonial by the Trotters.

And Gardner revealed to the Bolton News: "I am trying to organise something at the club where I can help young players in the future.

"Ludlow Bernard was the coach when I was 14 years old - he gave me the chance and has done so much for me in my career, along with Rene Simoes, who led Jamaica to the World Cup in 1998. They both helped me get started in football and got me to where I am now.

"There is a lot of talent back home and it just needs to be recognised, and hopefully I can play a part by giving them an opportunity from a young age. There have been players that are greater than me and have been overlooked in the past.

"They need a bit of exposure and, for instance, my good friend and former Wanderers team-mate Ibrahim Ba has been doing something similar for AC Milan and other clubs around Europe. Hopefully, if I can spot good, young talent then we can work together and find them a club and get that experience early."