Prince William to visit Charlton Athletic Football Club

Oct 26, 2005, 0:52 GMT

Britain's Prince William is to visit Charlton Athletic Football Club to prepare for his role as president of the Football Association.

The 23-year-old will train with youngsters and meet players at the team's practice ground in New Eltham, south east London, on Friday (28.10.05).

William, who supports Aston Villa, is president-designate of the FA and will take over the presidency from his uncle the Duke of York next May.

A Clarence House spokesman said: "He is keen to learn about all aspects of the game - from the grassroots community work through to meeting with the elite Premiership managers and players."

Meanwhile, the prince may be about to undergo an operation to fix his eyesight - so that he doesn't have to wear spectacles.

William is considering having laser eye surgery in the next few months, after seeing a specialist in London.

A royal source said: "William has found out he may have to wear glasses full-time and he's been very keen to explore the possibility of laser eye surgery.

"He's gone into hospital and seen a consultant, who's explained how it works and the risks involved.

"He's positive about the idea."

The operation involves slicing the front of the eye open and using a laser to reshape the cornea.

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