Matteo, who won six caps Scotland during his career, failed to obtain funding for a new business after visiting several high street lenders. He subsequently approached packager Intelligent Loans who were able to complete a deal with West One on his behalf.

The ex-Leeds United captain will use the funds to launch a football academy for secondary school children in the city. He became a popular figure amongst Leeds fans after scoring against AC Milan in his first season with the club.

Duncan Kreeger, director at West One Loans, said: “Every week we see reports that businesses are struggling for mainstream finance. This example makes things all the more real. It’s a shocking example of a solid business plan that was simply rejected by mainstream lenders.”

Dominic Matteo added: “Like so many small businesses, we were turned away by the mainstream banks. No business can get started without basic finance.

“Now, with this loan, I can really look forward to doing what I do best and, as an academy, offering a seriously competitive package. We’ve already got 80 really promising youngsters signed up, and the few remaining spaces are really filling up fast.”

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Episode 5: Larger Loans and Complex Lending: Powered by Partnership podcast from Newcastle for Intermediaries

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