Soccer Aid 2026 England squad unveiled as Owen Cooper set for youngest debut | OneFootball

England’s Soccer Aid 2026 squad has been named, with 16-year-old actor Owen Cooper set to become the event’s youngest player at the London Stadium on 31 May, as the charity marks its 20th year.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, debutants include Cooper, F1 star Damson Idris, influencer GK Barry, DJ Jordan North and Gladiator Nitro, whose real name is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.

Cooper said he is incredibly proud to take part, calling it an honour, and stressed Soccer Aid’s role in helping Unicef support children to grow up safe, healthy and able to play.

Returning for England are Jill Scott, Paddy McGuinness, Olly Murs and Tom Hiddleston, joined by singer-songwriter Tom Grennan and reality TV star Sam Thompson.

The Soccer Aid World XI FC features Usain Bolt, comedian Maisie Adam, rapper Big Zuu, Scottish actor Richard Gadd and The Last Leg’s Alex Brooker. Co-founder Robbie Williams will also return to the pitch and join England’s management team.

This year’s show is hosted by Unicef UK ambassador Dermot O’Leary with Alex Scott, while Sam Matterface returns as commentator. England will wear a replica of the white 1966 home kit to mark 60 years since the World Cup win, with the World XI in a bespoke Adidas strip. More names and a 20th anniversary half-time show will follow, and the match will be broadcast on ITV1, STV and ITVX.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk