Soccer Aid announces 2022 players and half-time performer

Virgin Radio

22 Mar 2022, 14:12

Credit: socceraid.org.uk

The stars set to hit the pitch for the annual Soccer Aid match have finally been announced.

Former One Direction star Liam Payne will captain the England squad, while Usain Bolt will return as captain of the opposing team - World XI FC.

Liam will be joined by comedian Alex Brooker and Emily in Paris actor Lucien Laviscount, both of whom are making their Soccer Aid debut.

Line of Duty’s Martin Compston will be on the international team, and the likes of Mo Gilligan, Harry Redknapp and Gary Neville will also head to the pitch.

The annual fundraiser in June will raise money for the United Nations Children’s Fund, and will take place at the London Stadium at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford.

Not only will the big names kick that ball around, but singer and Soccer Aid co-creator Robbie Williams will perform his 1997 hit Angels during the halftime show.

In a statement (via Metro), Robbie said: “I already know that it is going to be one of the most special nights of my career – and I want as many of you as possible to be part of it. Tickets are selling fast, so I would urge people to snap them up while they are still available.”

The Last Leg star Alex will be the first physically disabled player in Soccer Aid history, and added: “I’m so excited to be a part of Soccer Aid for UNICEF. I’ve watched it for years and I’m proud that I will be the first physically disabled person to play in the match.

“When I was a baby, my parents didn’t even know if I’d end up being able to walk, so to be involved in something like this is special. I should add that I’m right footed and don’t have a right foot, so I’m not gonna be a game changer! But I just can’t wait to be involved.”

Fellow comedian Lee Mack will be making his very big return this year. He scored the final goal in the 2021 match, marking a 3-0 win for the World IX team.

This Morning host and Unicef UK ambassador Dermot O’Leary is back as a Soccer Aid presenter, while Maya Jama will be a pundit, and Alex Scott will return as a pitch-side reporter.

Since its inception in 2006, Soccer Aid has raised over £60 million for the organisation, which helps bring aid to children all over the world.

Soccer Aid 2022 will take place at The London Stadium on June 12. The match will also air live on ITV and STV.