Want to get back in the beautiful game?

A new scheme designed to help men over 35 get back into playing a bit of relaxed, friendly football has been launched in London's Regents Park by some of the game's ageing stars including Steve Claridge, Perry Groves, Andy Sinton and Nicky Johns. The fun starts 13 June.

With an obvious demand for over 35s football but with the average man having increasing time commitments, concerns over their stamina, fear of injury and the quality of facilities in question, men tend to drop out of 11-a-side football. Football REPLAY has been created to make it easier and a lot more fun for all, by being able to offer the same place, same time every week along with smaller pitches.

Former Arsenal star Perry Groves said: 'I think it's a fantastic initiative. When men get to 35 they have other things which take up their time. Football Replay allows men to turn up to play football for a short time and get some much-needed exercise. It'll increase fitness levels and make you feel better.'

TV pundit Steve Claridge, who was still playing in the conference last year at 43 said: 'The whole idea of making football very accessible for the over 35s is very well thought through. People think that when you get past 35, your body gives up, but it doesn't. It's you that gives up.'

When Sunday comes

Operating on Sunday afternoons from 13 June throughout 45 centres across the country, games are open to individuals or groups - you can choose one of the pre-set kick off times to suit: either 2.00pm, 4.00pm or 6.00pm and the sessions will usually last for around an hour. Although all players will be asked to pre-register a ‘turn up and play’ option will still be offered.

This fun programme focuses more around having fun rather than competitive football and as everyone is in the same boat the emphasis is placed more on style and skills rather than ‘blood & guts’ football, such as no sliding tackles, therefore minimising the injury risk.

Of course one of the major benefits of a programme like this is raising the health and fitness levels of all those involved, therefore Football Replay is working in partnership with the Men’s Health Forum who run National Men’s Health Week each year. The theme for this year’s National Men’s Health Week which is 14th – 20th June, is promoting the health benefits of physical activity and the longer term benefits of an active and healthy nation.

• More on Football Replay - over 35's masters football

Would you trust these men to defend a free-kick? Over 35 football legends (and a men's health legend) at the launch of Football Replay. Left to right: Perry Groves, Andy Sinton, Peter Baker (CEO MHF), Nigel Hargreaves (Founder of Football Replay), Steve Claridge and Nicky Johns.