Former Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has joined forces with the Football Association and Football for Peace to launch a development centre for South Asians in England.

The University of Bradford will host the centre, which will "run football and life skill sessions" at League Two side Bradford's training ground.

"I want to promote them, give them an opportunity to be successful both on and off the pitch," said Ozil.

"I am from an ethnic diverse background and understand the challenges."

Former Real Madrid and Arsenal playmaker Ozil, who is of Turkish origin, was born in Gelsenkirchen in Germany.

He went on to play 92 times for Germany and helped them win the 2014 World Cup.

Ozil is currently at Turkish side Fenerbahce after leaving Arsenal on a free transfer in January.

"I have always been surprised why the South Asian community are only allowed to be fans of the game," he said. "Why are we not seeing more players or managers breaking into professional football?

"I hope the Football for Peace Mesut Ozil Centre will become the platform they need."