MANCHESTER UNITED legend Wayne Rooney will manage England at this year’s Soccer Aid for Unicef game.
The game against a World XI FC will see the Derby County star return to United’s Old Trafford stadium in the manager’s dugout, having teased the possibility on Thursday morning.
Rooney, 34, will take charge of England alongside Sam Allardyce, with David Seaman as goalkeeping coach.
The game, which was originally meant to be held in June before coronavirus struck, will be live on ITV in September with an exact date yet to be confirmed.
A host of former footballers will be involved, including Patrice Evra, David James, Yaya Toure, Wes Brown and Robbie Keane.
Rooney has been given special permission by Derby to become involved in the event during the Championship season.
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He said: “Taking part in Soccer Aid for Unicef is something I have wanted to do for many years. Previously, I have never been able to make the dates work, but this year was obviously different.
“I was enormously proud to be asked to manage the England team and although there will be no fans at the match, it is always special to go back to Old Trafford.
“Simply, representing your country is always a huge honour – and this game is no different. I’m looking forward to working with Sam and David.
“Yes, the players and I want to win the match but the real victory is helping to raise millions of pounds for Unicef.
“This year, every £1 donated is automatically tripled to £3 thanks to the UK Government and Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, so I would ask people to donate if they can.
“I’d like to thank Derby County Football Club for giving me special dispensation to take part in the match. Soccer Aid for Unicef is a show that we’ve always tried to watch as a family over the years.
“The names taking part this year will make it one of the most exciting to-date, so I hope everyone at home tunes in.”
