The art of football

Premier League stars put themselves in the picture for charity by penning self-portraits.

Footballers get creative for charity

The Premier League's finest have taken time out to prove they are equally creative with a pen in their hand, as a football at their feet in a series of self-portraits. In a one-off piece of football memorabilia that is to be auctioned in aid of Nordoff Robbins music charity, 40 players and managers from all 20 top-flight clubs have put felt-tip pen to paper in an exclusive leather-bound book called The Art of Football. Amongst the star names are England captain Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney and Didier Drogba, with each entry said to be a unique insight into the minds of the players having later been examined by a graphologist. The Premier League has offered the book to Nordoff Robbins, which delivers music therapy services, to auction at The Football Extravaganza on Monday 12 April, and it is hoped it will fetch a significant amount of money to add to the £4m raised over the last 15 years at the event. Fittingly one of the games greatest artists, Eric Cantona, will also be honoured on the same night. The former Manchester United striker will pick up an award for the outstanding contribution he made to the British game. Those not at the dinner in central London will also have the chance to bid for the book as an online auction site at www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk will be accepting bids. Professional graphologist Emma Bache, who was asked to interpret the drawings by the Premier League commented that Rooney's drawing was Picasso-esque, while adding that Ferdinand's signature was that of someone with business acumen. Other football personalities featured include, Michael Owen, Carlo Ancelotti, Robin van Persie, Carlos Tevez, Harry Redknapp, Cesc Fabregas and Theo Walcott.

Graphologists' interpretations:

Rio Ferdinand "It is interesting that he has not written a full signature but more his first name. The similarity between the 5 and $ sign suggests an interest in money and knowledge of business. A gentle curve to the right on his signature indicates fluidity of thought and of reason. However, the two defined lines underneath it suggest a determination and will-power." Carlo Ancelotti "There's great fluidity but it's been written quite slowly, which you can see because there's a large gap between the capital A and the rest of his name. The slowness would suggest he likes to be methodical in everything; he doesn't like to be rushed or forced into a situation that isn't of his own making. This is a very reflective person." Rafa Benitez "What is of note here is more what Rafa hasn't put in than what he has; a lack of picture suggests individuality. He has pressed quite hard on the paper which implies sensuality in all things in life. There is also a sense of humour in the right slant, although it is balanced which shows that he has found a good equilibrium in life. The strong Z on his signature suggests self-confidence." Steven Gerrard "This is quite a big figure with a