AN AFC Bournemouth player was shown some impressive ball control skills by youngsters at a powerchair football game.

Cherries defender Tyrone Mings paid a visit to Victoria Education Centre in Poole yesterday to observe a session, which was co-organised by the school, AFC Bournemouth’s Community Sports Trust and campaign organisation Kick It Out.

Powerchair football is played by people with disabilities who use power wheelchairs. Two teams of four players use wheelchairs equipped with foot guards to attack, defend and spin-kick a football in a bid to score goals.

Before kick-off, Tyrone spoke to the young players about his professional football career and answered questions.

He said: “I signed for Bournemouth in 2015. It’s been up and down, stop and start, but I’ve really enjoyed it. Football has given me lots of opportunities, and I’m grateful to the game.”

He added: “There are many times when it’s been a bit difficult, but it’s important not to give up. Anything worth doing is never easy.”

When asked if he still gets nervous prior to a big game, he said: “I still get a little bit nervous, but I’m quite a laid back person. Nerves don’t affect me in a negative way - it’s more excitement.”

The 24-year-old, who has experienced extended spells on the sidelines due to injuries, was asked what it was like spending time out.

“It’s very difficult but it’s an unfortunate part of the game. Every time you step out onto the pitch, it could happen. For me, it happened sooner than I would have liked when I got signed for Bournemouth. However, it gives you a period of reflection and you see the game from a different perspective.”

After the Q&A session, the powerchair footballers showed off their skills to the Premier League player. Akira Jackson, 17, plays for Wessex Warriors, a powerchair football club based in Poole.

“I’ve always wanted to become a footballer,” he said. “As a right winger, I’ve scored two goals in the league. It’s a magnificent sport. I’m getting much better at it now and I always want a challenge.

“I’ve been in the club since I was 15 – it’s been life changing,” he added.

After the game, Tyrone told the Daily Echo how impressed he was by the players.

“To come down here and see the competitive edge and the winning mentality of these guys was really refreshing. The standard was very good and to see how technically gifted they are was really impressive.

“I watched them dribble around cones and we could do with some of their ball control on a Saturday!”