Former England and Arsenal captain Tony Adams has been elected president of the English Rugby Football League.

Adams, who played over 600 games for the Gunners and won 66 international caps, will take over in July from current chairman and Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.

In 2000 the four-time English title winner set up the highly successful Sporting Chance clinic, a charitable foundation aimed at providing treatment and support for sports men and women suffering from drink, drug or gambling addictions.

In 1996 Adams admitted he was suffering from alcoholism and has since worked closely with the RFL’s welfare programmes and also Super League clubs Wigan and Hull FC.

With mental health issues becoming more prevalent in elite athletes, the RFL are desperate to take full advantage of Adams’ expertise.

Adams said the approach to become more involved in rugby league was one he couldn’t turn down.

“It will be an honour to become the next president of the RFL,” Adams said.

“I am passionate about working with everyone in the sport to raise the profile of mental health, wellness and resilience, for players and for everyone in Rugby League.

“I’d like to play my part in championing this brilliant sport on the national stage.”

RFL chairman Brian Barwick said Adams’ experience will be a huge boost to the sport in England.

“Tony Adams is known and respected throughout sport and beyond, not only for his outstanding playing career with Arsenal, but more recently for his pioneering work with Sporting Chance,” Barwick said.

“The charity has helped more than 400 rugby league players since the RFL entered into an official partnership with Sporting Chance in 2011.”