Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill has unveiled a new partnership with Scottish football and the police that will promote positive citizenship by using football to motivate people to change their behaviour.

Entitled 'Promoting Citizenship through Football – A Government and Football Partnership', the group chaired by the Scottish Football Association chief executive will look at tackling issues like anti-social behaviour, alcohol and drugs misuse, violence, domestic abuse, and sectarianism. 

Speaking from Hampden ahead of Scotland's qualifying game against Norway, MacAskill commented: "Scottish football clubs are well aware of the support that local communities give them and of the influence they in turn can have.

"As a nation we are not only passionate about the national team but the national game. This is an opportunity to use football to motivate people."

"This can help to tackle the problems that exist in some sections of the game and promote lifestyle changes across the country. These problems are in no way confined to football but it can play a vital role in helping resolve them."

Scottish FA chief Gordon Smith added: "Football is a great sport and its influence is felt right across the country. We want to make sure that the passion and excitement that football generates is used to help communities and improve lives.

"This new partnership will allow us to seek out new ways to tackle many of the difficult issues that sadly still exist in Scotland. While these issues may not always be football related, it is only right that the national sport plays its part in helping making Scotland a better country."

The new group expands on the work already being carried out by the Sectarianism in Football Working Group.