Robbie Williams has chosen St George’s Day to announce five new stars for his England team ahead of the Soccer Aid For Unicef match in June.
The singer revealed former Three Lions players Jamie Redknapp, David Seaman, Phil Neville, Danny Murphy and Robbie Fowler will play against Usain Bolt and the Soccer Aid World XI.
The game is scheduled to kick-off at Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium on June 10.
The latest additions to the England team – who boast nearly 200 caps between them – add to an already impressive line-up of celebrities and former professional footballers.
They include Sir Mo Farah, Gordon Ramsay, Olly Murs, Mark Wright, Brendan Cole, Joe Wicks, Clarence Seedorf, Robert Pires, Yaya Toure, Jaap Stam, Patrick Kluivert, Edwin van der Sar and Kevin Pietersen.
All the money raised by the match will go towards Unicef’s work, organisers said, and the UK Government will match every £1 donated by the public through its UK Aid Match scheme.
Redknapp said: “Every former pro will tell you that they really miss playing, so I jump at any chance to pull my boots on again – especially for Soccer Aid for Unicef.
“I’ve not done too badly in these games over the years but I think both line-ups this year are stronger than ever. The fans’ support has been brilliant since this initiative began and I know that will continue this year, especially with the Government’s pledge to match donations pound-for-pound.”
Former England goalkeeper Seaman added: “Soccer Aid for Unicef is a great cause, which raises lots of money for children in danger all around the world.
“Looking at the names involved this year I know it’s going to be bigger and better than ever and your support will be vital to that. I am delighted, too, that every pound you donate will be matched by the Government, so please lend us your support.”
International Development Secretary, Penny Mordaunt said: “We are excited to be involved once again this year in what promises to be the biggest Soccer Aid for Unicef to date.
“The UK Government will match public donations pound-for-pound, meaning that, together, we can double the difference for children around the world.”
Soccer Aid For Unicef was launched in 2006 by Williams and TV presenter Jonathan Wilkes.
In the past it has featured A-list stars such as Will Ferrell, Woody Harrelson, Mike Myers and Niall Horan and has so far raised £24 million.