FOREIGN students studying English at a St Albans school have been boosting their language skills by playing football.

The St Albans School of Languages, Market Place, formed the “International All-Stars” football team which recently competed in a six-a-side tournament organised by Comets Sports Club in Hemel Hempstead.

Teacher James Gibson said players came from a range of countries including Venezuela, Spain, France, Hungary and even the island of Sicily.

James said: “Football has its own language and all the pupils know about football. Our players were really good as they brought their European experience to the game.”

Director of the school Ian Salkey added: “We wanted to organise a football team for the students as they love the sport, and apart from helping to keep them fit, it improves their language skills.

“Although we didn’t do very well on the day, probably because it was their first competition, the team did progress during the event. And we did end up drawing with the team that went on to win the tournament.”