Electronic Arts has announced that it will release a new DS-exclusive footy game, EA SPORTS Football Academy, in March. Yes, a football game played on a handheld. Well, not quite...

The game will challenge gamers to stretch their knowledge of strategy, positioning and technique in the Beautiful Game. Players will complete a range of currently undefined tasks, with the option to bring their new-found skills to bear against their mates.

Additionally, the title will come complete with a selection of mini-games. It's a DS game, innit?

EA hasn't said anything specific about official licenses, and the words 'FIFA', 'FA', 'Football League' or 'Premiership' aren't in the title, but an image showing an Arsenal squad is included in the game.

The first screens have been released and SPOnG has the goods below.