IT was eyes down for a game of dominoes when Wanderers goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi visited Somali elders in Bolton.

The Oman international footballer called at the headquarters of the New Bolton Somali Association as part of efforts to to encourage community cohesion. He served the elders lunch and played cards and dominoes.

Al Habsi, who is a Muslim, believes it is important to be part of the community.

He said: "I spent about an hour at the centre with some of the Somali people who live in Bolton. It was good to meet them and see the work that this association does."

Mohamad Gual, aged 55, who moved to Bolton from Somalia when he was aged 10, said: "It was good of Ali Al Habsi to take time out of his busy schedule to come and meet us.

"He was very nice and down to earth.

"He is a good role model for people and he helps promote diversity in the town."

The visit was part of Creating Chances - the Premier League's community programme which engages communities and supporters across the UK.

The New Bolton Somali Association was formed to help newly arrived Somali families integrate within the local community.