Mercedes-Benz Direct is sponsoring the Asian Football League through its five dealerships based in and around London.

Its Kingston-on-Thames, Waltham Cross, Hemel Hempsted, Caterham and Park Royal sites will be supporting the association’s adult league and its forthcoming under 13s league throughout 2006.

The Asian Football League is a non-profit organisation and was established in 1990 to highlight the skills of Asian players.

Nigel Edwards, marketing manager for Mercedes-Benz Direct said: "We've a great interest in football and it's fantastic to be associated with a league which is so popular with the local community.

"What's even better is that we'll be helping the young and up-and-coming players to develop their game and it's these players that will eventually help the association realise its goal to increase the number of Asian players in top-flight football."