Loose Women star GK Barry has revealed that her girlfriend, footballer Ella Rutherford, has been giving her football practice in preparation for her Soccer Aid debut.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Soccer Aid.
The England side will wear the iconic white home kit from the 1966 tournament when they face the Soccer Aid World XI in May at the London Stadium, marking the 60th anniversary of England’s World Cup triumph.
Rutherford Coaching GK Barry for Soccer Aid
Speaking to the Press Association, GK Barry said Ella Rutherford has been teaching her how to play football in their garden before her Soccer Aid debut.
GK Barry admitted, “I said to Ella, let me just play in your position so you can teach me well, and she is a centre attacking midfielder, so I was like, ‘I’ll do that’.
“But what I didn’t realise is that that is quite a lot of attacking, and I am built like a beanstalk, so this could go one of two ways for me. We’ve been in the back garden with some cones, I’ve had my little football boots on, so I’m learning how to dribble, and she’s taking me to a football pitch so I can learn where I’m actually allowed to be on the pitch and where I’m meant to go. So this poor girl’s got her work cut out for her.”
From Spectator to Participant
GK Barry shared, “To be honest with you, pre-Ella, I didn’t really have a clue about actual football, I’ve only just started when I’m watching her, (to) sort of kind of know what’s going on, usually I’ll be at the bar, I’ll get a Prosecco, and I’ll watch her play a game.
“But now I’m doing Soccer Aid, I’ve had to take it a little bit more seriously, like I’m proper watching what’s going on. So I actually know a little bit about football.”
Inspired by Last Year’s Event
The star shared that she became interested in doing the charity match when watching last year’s edition and thinking it was “really wholesome” and “such a nice atmosphere”, before getting the call and telling Rutherford to coach her.
Grace continued: “I don’t want to show off, but I can do an incredible header, the size of my head is criminal, so I do feel like I’m getting there, but I don’t want anyone to expect any amazing football skills out of me.”
Soccer Aid’s Charitable Impact
- Since 2006, Soccer Aid for UNICEF has raised over £121 million.
- The money supports UNICEF’s vital work for children.
- Robbie Williams, a UNICEF UK Ambassador, co-founded the concept.
Robbie will manage England and he will be able to call on former rugby star Joe Marler as his celebrity goalkeeper. The Celebrity Traitors star will share the gloves with Paddy McGuinness, who will become the record appearance holder, when he takes to the pitch.