TEHRANTIMES - Iran football captain Javad Nekounam was given a symbolic captaincy armband from children fighting cancer on Wednesday.

Esteghlal player Nekounam, who is set to join Al Sharjah of the UAE, played football for a few minutes with the children of the Mahak Charity.

“We must make a child's dream come true. I’m happy to be here among them today. I hope they remember this day forever,” Nekounam said.

“My dream is to see these children alongside their families. I hope they can be treated as soon as possible,” he added.  

Talking about the armband, Nekounam said, “I will keep the armband forever. This is one of the most valuable gifts I’ve received so far. I will put the armband in my collection.”

Nekounam helped the Iranian football team reach the 2014 World Cup in June.