Liam Payne says it will be a “real honour” to captain England at this year's 'Soccer Aid'.
Liam Payne is excited to captain the England team at this year's Soccer Aid
The former One Direction star is preparing to lead out the star-studded football team - which includes new recruits, ‘Emily in Paris’ star Lucien Laviscount and comedian Alex Brooker - on Sunday 12 June to support UNICEF, adding to the £60 million raised for children all over the world since the competition began in 2006.
The 28-year-old pop star said: “It doesn’t get much better than captaining England in 'Soccer Aid' while fundraising for UNICEF.
“I can’t believe I get to run out onto the pitch with some of my heroes all while raising money for such a great cause. To be given the captain’s armband is a real honour and I’m determined to lead us to victory.”
Along with playing in the charity matches, pop legend Robbie Williams - who doubles as a UNICEF UK Ambassador - claims his half-time performance on the day will be one of the "most special nights” of his career.
The 48-year-old singer 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. In so doing, people will be supporting Soccer Aid for UNICEF, which has raised £60m since we started it 16 years ago.”
The World XI team will be captained by Olympic champion Usain Bolt, and he loves the “special energy" of the annual match against England, who will include Tom Grennan, Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Fara Williams, Joe Cole and David Seaman.
The 35-year sprinter said: “The crowd were amazing every time I competed there and created a special energy and atmosphere. I look forward to returning in June to play again for the Soccer Aid World XI FC.”
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