London, Dec 27 (ANI): Ace Manchester United footballer Rio Ferdinand has rescued a teenage fan from a life of crime and violence through his charity.

Londoner Sanchez Ming, 19, took to hanging out with a drugs and weapons gang after Crystal Palace dashed his hopes of becoming a professional player.

When his best pal was stabbed to death in a brawl at Lewisham last year, Sanchez hit rock bottom, the Daily Star reports.

But then he discovered Ferdinand’s charity, the Live The Dream Foundation - that helps troubled youngsters make the most of their talents. And now he is planning to train for matches again, go to university and later pursue a career as a coach. Sanchez was 13 when his dream of playing for Palace bit the dust.

His family failed to understand how hard the rejection had hit him. And he found himself giving in to dangerous temptations.

Sanchez said: “It was tough where I lived. There were drugs all around and it was hard to say ‘No’. I saw guns being used. Then my friend was stabbed in the neck. I was so shocked. It was really upsetting.”

The foundation fronted by Manchester United defender Ferdinand has already helped Simeon Jackson, top scorer at League One club Gillingham.

The charity is based on the belief that young people are motivated and enthused by a range of cultural, sports and arts activities but don’t always know how to go about taking part, the Daily Star reports. (ANI)