A NEW transfer deal has been secured to help Blackburn Rovers achieve different goals.

Yasir Sufi has been brought in at Ewood Park to forge fresh links between the club and the town’s Asian businesses and community organisations.

His role as integration and development manager for the BAME community has been welcomed by chief executive Steve Waggott.

Mr Sufi said: “We’re hoping to create a closer link with various initiatives and events for the Asian community in Blackburn.

“My goal is to make Rovers the heartbeat of the community, bringing a sense of pride to supporting your local club, with opportunities for all ages.

“Football has a massive role to play in breaking down barriers and bringing people together from different backgrounds to play, watch and enjoy the game.”

His work will see him combine with the club’s community trust, which has launched their Next Generation initiative to widen Rovers’ appeal.

Mr Waggott added: “During my two years at the club and as part of our fan engagement strategy, we have worked on trying to engage with the BAME community through attendance at key events, ticket initiatives and community programmes delivered by our award-winning community trust.

“But what became apparent was that the club needed someone to take ownership of this key growth aspect for the club.”

Firms or community groups looking to get in touch with Mr Sufi are being asked to email ysufi@rovers.co.uk