Eric Cantona intends to house refugee family for 'at least' 2 years

Eric Cantona is working with authorities in Marseille to house a family of refugees for "at least" two years.

In an interview with a French radio station, the former Manchester United forward publicized his intentions to provide housing, food, and even a garden for migrants from the Middle East.

"If you house someone who does not have the right to work, then they need to eat too," he said.

He credits his own grandparents, who crossed the Pyrenees on foot as they fled the Spanish rule of dictator Francisco Franco, as inspiration.

Related: Germany's Mario Gotze to auction boots to help refugees

Cantona, who is now a professional actor, is the latest from the football community to donate money or services to thousands of displaced people as war continues to force a mass exodus from Syria and the surrounding areas.

- With translations from the Guardian