Jay-Z and Ashley Cole to open London restaurant

Ashley Cole was introduced to Jay-Z by a friend who works in a sports agency

England and Chelsea footballer Ashley Cole is to open a restaurant in London with Jay-Z.

Cole told BBC Sport the restaurant will aim to give jobs to young people from less well off backgrounds and a portion of profits will go to charity each month.

The 30-year-old revealed a British entrepreneur had introduced him to the US rapper.

The pair recently met in New York to discuss the project.

Cole has faced controversy in recent months after shooting a work experience student with an air rifle at Chelsea's training ground - but he denied the plan was about improving his image.

"I don't do things to try and get publicity or anything like that," he said.

"It was a great way for me to be working with people like Jay-Z and with great entrepreneurs who are going to try and make this restaurant a success."

The pair were brought together by NVA Entertainment, a sports agency which counts Rio Ferdinand among its clients.

"I've always loved Jay-Z's music and loved what he's done," Cole said.

"I know how hard it is to get a job because my mum had chances to get a job and never got them so hopefully I can give something back and this is a great way of doing it."