Pfizer has launched a new campaign with Everton FC manager, Ronald Koeman, and football trick experts, the F2 Freestylers, to emphasise the importance of expert help in quitting smoking.

The ‘Kick It with Help’ campaign includes an online video showing how the F2 Freestylers improve their free kick taking skills with expert coaching tips from Ronald – to illustrate how expert help from a trained healthcare professional can similarly help quitters to achieve their goals.

The campaign is encouraging smokers to visit the Quit with Help website to find their nearest stop smoking service and improve their chances of kicking the habit successfully. The online resource also provides help, information, suggestions, ideas and motivations to support a quit journey.

Ronald Koeman said: “No one who has achieved success in the world of football has done so without the help of professionals along the way. Throughout my career as a player and a manager, I know the importance a good coach makes. I am dedicated to coaching my players to ensure they reach their goals and achieve the success they deserve.

"This is also true for those trying to quit smoking and who are stuck in a cycle of quit attempts. By enlisting the help of your healthcare professional you can give yourself the best chance of quitting smoking.”

Statistics from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), show that more than a third of all smokers make at least one quit attempt in a given year, but only about two to three per cent of smokers succeed long term.