Eric Cantona urges Liverpool and Spurs fans to be more cultured in Madrid for Champions League final

Ex-Manchester United star recommends ditching fast-food restaurants in favour of Spanish cuisine

Eric Cantona has teamed up with Hotels.com to help British people 'experience the beauty of the places they are visiting' (Getty Images)

Eric Cantona has appealed to British football fans to be more cultured when they visit Madrid ahead of the UEFA Champions League final this weekend.

The French former football star has called on Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur fans to avoid Irish bars and fast food restaurants and get to know the local culture instead.

He also made an impassioned plea for travelling fans to try the regional cuisine and even substitute pubs for art galleries.

The appeal came following research which showed a quarter of football fans do not consider themselves to be cultured.

More than half (55 per cent) also said they do not try the local cuisine when abroad.

That figure compared to 43 per cent who said they went to a pub or bar on their last European away trip.

Speaking about the Hotels.com survey ahead of the final, Mr Cantona said: “It’s time to open your eyes and experience the beauty of the places you are visiting when you follow your team.

“Learn the language, drink in the culture, meet the local people and become the perfect travelling fan.”

Pig’s ears were Mr Cantona's tip for one of the local dishes football fans should try during their stay in Madrid.

The ears are grilled until they are crispy and typically served with a side of spicy bravas sauce and a wedge of lemon, as well as a customary cold beer.

SWNS