Lane7 has invited former England footballer Deli Alli to open a new lane named in his honour at its Milton Keynes venue, which features personalised shoes, a commemorative plaque and balls printed with the sports star’s face.

Ahead of the “The Dele Alley” opening on 23 June, Lane7 reached out to the Milton Keynes-born midfielder to return to the city from his new home at Italian Serie A side Como 1907 in order to cut the ribbon.

“Dele Alli is a hero to Milton Keynes,” said MD Gavin Hughes. “His time at MK Dons, Tottenham and England saw his status rise, so much so that he deserves a bowling alley named in his honour. Why have a statue when you can have your own bowling alley, Alli?”

“Things haven’t gone perfect for Dele at Como 1907 so we thought we’d reach out and offer him the chance to come home. Dele, if you see this – the bowling and tuition is on us. Let’s see if you can replicate your football success on the lanes!”

Lane eight has been renamed The Dele Alley in honour of Alli’s shirt number at Como 1907, however the footballer has played just nine minutes for the side since joining from Everton in January.