Flamini calls on footballers to save the planet

Mathieu Flamini has called on professional footballers to use their international fan base for good, to help to save the environment.

10 years after launching his own biochemicals company, he and 'Gunners' midfielder Mesut Ozil have set up their own environmentally-friendly grooming brand.

He has called on fellow professionals to follow and take the lead on current environmental matters. 

"We have responsibility to the fans and the younger generation who are following us on social media, so it's important for us to stand up for causes which are important," Flamini told 'BBC Radio 5 live'.

"Football players are more than athletes. They are also people who can influence the next generation and it is a necessity for us to take the lead."

"I have always been very close to nature and I always wanted to give my contribution," he said.

"We are not trying to change the world, we have a very humble approach.

"If you believe in something, if you are passionate about a mission, why not stand up for it. I believe it is the right thing to do."