25 January 2023 , 22:30
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Arsenal legend Ian Wright and Chelsea boss Emma Hayes are being given one of football’s biggest honours.
They are being inducted into the prestigious Legends of Football to join previous recipients like Pelé, David Beckham, Arsène Wenger and most recently England boss Gareth Southgate and Lioness hero Ellen White.
Former England striker Wright and pioneering and hugely successful women’s boss Hayes will be officially unveiled at a star-studded event at the Grosvenor House Hotel on October 2 with the whole event in aid of Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy.
Wright said: “It’s an absolute honour to receive the 2023 Legends of Football award. To be recognised alongside some of the game’s greatest figures in the Legends of Football Hall of Fame, including my old boss, Arsène Wenger is unbelievable.
“Music has been so powerful for me throughout my life and career, and to see how Nordoff Robbins use music to help people connect and communicate is truly special. I’m really looking forward to a great night of football, music and fundraising at Grosvenor House in October.”
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Hayes said, ‘‘I’m thrilled to be recognised amongst some of the biggest names in the game and can’t wait to join the illustrious company in the Legends of Football Hall of Fame.
Ian Wright is being honoured amongst the Legends of Football (Ashley Western/Colorpsort/REX/Shutterstock)“I’m delighted to accept the award alongside a true footballing legend in the shape of Ian Wright and look forward to celebrating on the night.
“It’s an honour to be associated with such an amazing charity like Nordoff Robbins, they play a hugely important role in improving the lives of people across society through music.
“Music therapy is such a creative way of communicating with people, and I hope any money raised through the event can continue to support the incredible progress that’s been made so far.’’
Sky Sports presenter Geoff Shreeves, the Legends of Football chairman, said: ‘We’re delighted to be honouring Ian Wright and Emma Hayes, both fitting recipients of the 2023 Legends of Football award.
“As one of the greatest marksmen of his generation, Ian’s career was truly legendary. Prolific throughout England’s football pyramid, he took the path less trodden to become Arsenal’s greatest goal scorer, winning the Premier League and FA Cup twice as part of an unparalleled era of success at the club.
Emma Hayes is also being honoured after her huge success with Chelsea women (Getty Images)‘‘Emma’s Chelsea sides have been the standard bearers of women’s football in this country for the best part of a decade, with Emma at the forefront of their phenomenal success throughout.
“Her passion for the game knows no bounds and her influence on the sport in this country and across the world is seismic, with Emma’s ferocious work-rate and determination playing a huge part in making the women’s game what it is today.
“Hers and Ian’s induction into the Legends of Football Hall of Fame is thoroughly deserved and we’re delighted to have them both on board as ambassadors for Legends of Football and Nordoff Robbins.’’
Legends of Football will honour Ian Wright and Emma Hayes at a star- studded event on 2 nd October 2023 at Grosvenor House, London. Packages start from £5,500 + VAT and can be purchased now by downloading a booking form here.
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