Scotland star Steven Naismith today launched the Scottish FA’s charity partnership with Dyslexia Scotland.

The Everton striker is an ambassador for the charity, having revealed he struggled with dyslexia at school, and took time out from preparations for Saturday’s European Qualifier against Georgia at Ibrox to announce the Scottish FA’s partnership.

Being an Official Nominated Charity will enable Dyslexia Scotland to raise the profile and awareness of their activities over the next two years, become part of the Scottish FA’s marketing and digital media inventory, receive charity donations from the governing body and receive assistance and support for the charity’s events.

Steven has recently sponsored his home-town team, Stewarton Annick FC, who now wear Dyslexia Scotland on their jerseys. 

He said: “I am delighted that the Scottish FA has announced Dyslexia Scotland as a nominated charity, especially since it is a charity that is close to my heart.

“All through primary school and through secondary school, while I was good at football, I felt the struggle when it came to things like a spelling test. When I was reading a book in class, I would skim ahead so I wouldn’t make a fool of myself. Football got me through it; it was an outlet, in a way.

“I am sure that this partnership will help raise awareness of dyslexia, especially among younger people, and I show fellow sufferers that there is support out there via Dyslexia Scotland.”

Cathy Magee, Chief Executive of Dyslexia Scotland, added: “Our selection as the nominated charity of the Scottish FA is absolutely fantastic news. We are extremely excited about the opportunities the partnership will offer us and we look forward to working together with the Association over the next two years to raise awareness of the work we are involved in across Scotland.

“Having Steven Naismith as one of our ambassadors has already been fantastic and this new relationship will provide us with even greater opportunities to highlight our activities and work around the national team matches.”