Joe Marler confirms he'll be back playing for England in May

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The former England loosehead, 35, will make his Soccer Aid debut on May 31 at the London Stadium, home of West Ham United.

And in a move that will raise a few eyebrows, Marler won’t be scrummaging — he’ll be between the sticks.

Marler earned 95 caps for England and toured New Zealand with the British & Irish Lions in 2017. He was part of the England sides that finished runners-up at the 2019 Rugby World Cup and claimed bronze in 2023.

At club level, he racked up 286 appearances for Harlequins, cementing himself as one of the Premiership’s most recognisable — and outspoken — characters.

Now he’s swapping scrums for spot-kicks.

“I’m honoured to be part of Soccer Aid for UNICEF,” said Marler.
“Never did I believe I would be swapping an England rugby kit for a football kit but rest assured I’ll be a ‘Faithful’ to an amazing cause.”

Marler is listed as one of England’s celebrity goalkeepers and will share duties with TV presenter Paddy McGuinness.

If things get serious, former Manchester City No.1 Joe Hart has been named as England’s professional stopper.

On the touchline, Soccer Aid co-founder Robbie Williams will manage the Three Lions alongside Jonathan Wilkes, while sprint king Usain Bolt takes charge of the World XI.

It may not count towards his 95-cap tally — but for Marler, another England debut is still another England debut.

In the storied history of Rugby's Greatest Championship, exceptional leaders have emerged—warriors of various forms, be they agile half-backs, towering second rows, or fearless flankers.

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