11 May 2023 , 09:36
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Stormzy has insisted England's players call him 'boss' or 'gaffer' rather than 'Mike' when he leads out a star-studded XI at this year's Soccer Aid match.
The musician, whose real name is Michael Omari, has been confirmed at the Three Lions boss for the charity match at Old Trafford in June. Stormzy will be helped out by a coaching team including former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp, current Chelsea women's manager Emma Hayes, actress Vicky McClure and ex-footballers David Seaman and Zavon Hines.
A number of full England internationals will feature in the side, which is made up of ex-pros and celebrities. Euros winner Jill Scott will wear the captain's armband, with Gary Neville and Jack Wilshere among the others involved.
"I’m taking this really seriously," Stormzy said. "I don’t want the players saying they loved my last album – seriously, it’s just about winning the game for me. I’ll put the fire in them. They need to call me ‘boss’ or ‘gaffer’, though – not Mike!
The 29-year-old is a self-confessed "massive football fan" and supporter of Manchester United. Neville, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes are already confirmed as members of his squad, but he has his eye on another star of yesteryear.
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“If I could pick any player to play for me it would be Wayne Rooney, all day long – it would be an honour to manage him," he added. "My other footballing heroes growing up were Ruud van Nistelrooy and Paul Scholes – but I would have played like Rio Ferdinand had I ever turned pro! I’ve got a really good coaching team with me and if we’re struggling with 10 minutes to go I’ll call my mate José!”
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Stormzy will take charge of the England team at Soccer Aid (Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP/REX/Shutterstock)Stormzy isn't the first musician involved the England team during the charity game. Liam Payne wore the captain's armband in 2022, but his team was beaten on penalties by a World XI skippered by Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt.
Bolt will captain the World XI again this year, with their management team including actor Martin Compston and former Ireland striker Robbie Keane. Other footballers in the squad include ex-Manchester United trio Ben Foster, Patrice Evra and Nani, while comedians Maisie Adam and Mo Gilligan are also set to feature.
Soccer Aid 2023 will take place at Old Trafford on June 11, one day after the Champions League final. The fixture has raised more than £75m for charity since it first took place in 2006, with Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes - both of whom played in the inaugural event - founding the initiative. Tickets for this year's game in Manchester are available here.