Brentford FC's club ambassador and former player, Marcus Gayle, has earned a Football Black List award in the practitioners category.

The Football Black List pays tribute to individuals from African and Caribbean backgrounds who inspire the next generation in football.

Gayle received the award for his contributions to anti-discrimination advocacy with his impact coming in roles as a former football player, club ambassador, and lead educator at Brentford Football Club.

The club says Gayle has helped lead the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust in tackling discrimination through the Power of Football initiative - delivering anti-discrimination sessions to primary schools across Hounslow.

Gayle has been at the 'forefront' of initiatives such as the club's #BeeAHero campaign, urging more people to donate blood, particularly those from black backgrounds; the Mayor's Have a Word Campaign to tackle violence against women and girls; and the Heart of West London campaign, to promote cardiac health.

As lead educator, the former striker has supported with player education, delivering key sessions to the first team, B team, academy and women's teams on topics such as racial discrimination.

The Football Black List 2022 awards (credit: Football Black List).

Brentford director Nity Raj said: "Marcus plays an invaluable role at the club. He has continued to go over and above in his efforts to educate our community about anti-discrimination.

"Marcus's work embodies our values at the club - we're so proud to have him here.

"His Football Black List Award is well deserved and a reflection of the impact he's making."

Having started his career at Brentford in 1988, Gayle made almost 200 appearances for Brentford before stints with Wimbledon, Rangers and Watford.

Gayle returned to Brentford in 2005, to make a total of 231 appearances, and earned a place in the club's Hall of Fame in 2015.

In 2020, Gayle joined Brentford as a club ambassador.

Gayle will formally receive his Football Black List award on 21 March where he will join fellow 2024 winners.

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