The line-up for this year's Soccer Aid has been announced and will see former footballers, singers, actors, and more are set to take to the pitch for another round of England versus World XI FC.
This year's charity fixture will include some football icons such as Arsene Wenger, Harry Redknapp and Gary Neville. Former Arsenal manager Wenger will act as World XI manager while Redknapp will be his counterpart manager for England.
Taking place every year, the charity fixture will be raising money for UNICEF to help with its mission of providing vaccines, tackling malnutrition and protecting children in times of crisis, such as the conflict in Ukraine.
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Soccer Aid was set up with the help of Robbie Williams in 2006 and he is expected to perform his famous hit 'Angels' as part of a half-time show at the event. Since its formation, the event has raised over £60 million with the help of participating celebs and former footballers.
Mr Williams 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.”
When and where will Soccer Aid 2022 take place?
This year's Soccer Aid is marked to take place bang in the middle of summer on June 12 and will be hosted at the London Stadium at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford.
The iconic stadium previously hosted the 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics and now serves as a track-and-field to the general public and is also most known for being the home of West Ham United.
Who will be taking part in Soccer Aid 2022?
Former One Direction singer Liam Payne will captain England during this year’s Soccer Aid football match. Payne, 28, 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!”
It will also see the return of Usain Bolt as captain of World XI with the athlete returning to London 10 years on from his gold-medal wins at London 2012.
Maya Jama and Alex Scott will return as presenters for the charity match. TV personality and comedian Brooker will be the first physically disabled Soccer Aid player.
Speaking ahead of the match Brooker said: “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.”
