THE haze that has enveloped Singapore did not deter Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand, who led a football clinic for youngsters at the Marina Bay Sands (MBS) on Thursday afternoon.

The former England defender was joined by Stoke City striker Peter Crouch and a host of former English Premier League stars like Ian Wright, David Ginola, David Seaman and John Barnes.

Some 60 children from the Guardian Academy were taught the art of heading, dribbling and juggling during the hour-long clinic at the MBS' indoor skating rink.

Said Ferdinand, 34: "It's great to be in Singapore and we've had a great time so far even with the haze. What a beautiful city nonetheless."