Deco sets the right example

It's good to see one Chelsea footballer using his fame for good, even if his team-mates seem determined to court publicity of a different kind. While Ashley Cole has been garnering more unwanted press with his recent arrest, Deco has been trying to draw attention to his charitable organisation, The Deco Institute.

The institute aims to help children in the Brazilian city near Sao Paolo where Deco grew up. “We really wanted to change something and if you want to do that, you have to start where you live,” he said in the Times. “All countries have social problems, but in Brazil they live in a place with many difficulties — they are offered drugs at 10, 11. This gives them the chance to be someone.”

Deco may have had a frustrating season with a series of niggling injuries, but as the season nears the business end, and with Chelsea still in contention in the Champions League and FA Cup, the stage is set for him to recapture the early season form that saw him make such an impact at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea memorabilia signed by Deco is available at the Icons shop, including the 2008-09 home shirt and 2008-09 away kit. If you prefer signed football photos then take a look at Deco's First Goal For Chelsea, or Deco In Action For Chelsea.