Former England internationals sign up to Soccer Aid 2019 for Unicef

Former England internationals Michael Owen, David Seaman, Jamie Carragher and Glen Johnson are the latest to sign up for the annual charity football match Soccer Aid for Unicef.

Taking place is at Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge stadium on Sunday 16th June this year, the quartet will represent England – co-managed managed by Sam Allardyce and Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid – against a Soccer Aid World Xi side guided by Harry Redknapp and Susanna’s co-presenter, Piers Morgan.

Former Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Owen said: “I’m thrilled to be playing in Soccer Aid for Unicef again. It’s a fantastic cause and I’m looking forward to taking on a strong Soccer Aid World XI. After winning it last year, I am hopeful that we will retain the Soccer Aid for Unicef Shield.”

Michael Owen celebrates scoring in Soccer Aid 2018.

Over the last 12 years, more than £30 million has been raised through Soccer Aid which has helped Unicef provide life-saving food, vaccines, clean water and protection from violence to millions of children around the world.

But it’s far from job done as this year Soccer Aid again aims to make sure that more children get the chance to live a happy, healthy and safe childhood.

Arsenal’s legendary goalkeeper, Seaman, added: “I’m a Soccer Aid for Unicef veteran having played in all the matches since 2006! I’ve always loved being part of the game and I’m looking forward to playing in front of a big London crowd again. The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge was always one I enjoyed and I am sure this match will be the same.”

Another Soccer Aid returner is Liverpool legend and current Sky Sports pundit, Jamie Carragher.

The defender, who’s making his second appearance in the game, said: “I have loved playing in the Soccer Aid for Unicef match previously and am really excited to be there once again. We have an unbelievable line-up this year and we’re hoping it will be a great day for the fans and that we can help Unicef raise vital funds.”

Jamie Carragher taking part in Soccer Aid 2016.

Meanwhile another former Liverpool defender, Glen Johnson, is set to make Soccer Aid debut at a ground he knows very well.

The right-back represented Chelsea between 2003-2007 and will be returning to his old stomping ground.

“I’m delighted to have been asked to play in Soccer Aid for Unicef – the first time I’ve been part of the game,” said Johnson.

“This match is always one I’ve always watched over the years, so I’m looking forward to seeing some old faces and meeting some of the celebrities taking part. It’s all for a fantastic cause, so come and watch us!”

These four stars add to an England squad which to-date includes Jamie Redknapp, Joe Cole, Mo Farah, Joe Wicks, Mark Wright, Jeremy Lynch and Ben Shepherd.

They will face a Soccer Aid World XI boasting Robbie Keane, Michael Essien, Didier Drogba, Usain Bolt, Niall Horan, Ricardo Carvalho, Martin Compston, Danny O’Carroll, Billy Wingrove and Kem Cetinay.

Tickets for Soccer Aid for Unicef 2019 are available now at socceraid.org.uk/tickets/, or by calling 0207 386 2019. Tickets are priced at £10 for under-16s and £20 for adults, meaning a family of four can attend for £60.

The match will be broadcast live on ITV and STV. The money raised will go towards Unicef’s vital work protecting children in danger around the world. 100% of all public donations to Soccer Aid for Unicef will go towards supporting the vital work protecting children in the UK and globally.

Keep an eye on Soccer Aid’s website and socials for more exciting player announcements and information.

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