As a player, and even now as a pundit, Martin Keown has always divided opinion. Unless you are a Gooner, of course.

Islington Gazette: Martin Keown opens a new all-weather astro-turf pitch at Ambler Primary School in Finsbury Park. Picture: Stuart MacFarlaneMartin Keown opens a new all-weather astro-turf pitch at Ambler Primary School in Finsbury Park. Picture: Stuart MacFarlane (Image: Arsenal FC)

The legendary former Arsenal defender is still revered in Islington – not least because of the failing Gunners first team.

But he remains part of the family as a club ambassador, and last week opened a new astro-turf pitch at Finsbury Park’s Ambler Primary School, in Blackstock Road,

It was built using proceeds from the Emirates Stadium legends’ charity match against AC Milan in September last year – a game Keown played in.

Islington Gazette: Martin Keown opens a new all-weather astro-turf pitch at Ambler Primary School in Finsbury Park. Picture: Stuart MacFarlaneMartin Keown opens a new all-weather astro-turf pitch at Ambler Primary School in Finsbury Park. Picture: Stuart MacFarlane (Image: Arsenal FC)

The pitch will also be open for community use, and he said: “These kids are going to school right next to Emirates Stadium and a few are dreaming of playing there one day. This is what it’s all about.

“For me, my best friend growing up was my back garden wall, but here they have a safe cage here with goals at each end and it’s enclosed, so it’s a perfect facility for them.

“I think it’s an outstanding commitment that Arsenal is not only funding to build these spaces, but also using them to run football sessions through Arsenal in the Community, leaving a legacy for years to come. It’s very important as football brings discipline and rules which helps children away from football.”