AN ENGLAND international footballer has played for a Sunday league football club in Sussex for £5.
Eni Aluko, who has made 102 appearances for England, joined Pevensey and Westham FC for a one-off match after the club entered a £5 raffle on eBay.
The former Chelsea and Juventus forward came off the bench in the side's defeat to Ringmer AFC at Langney Sports Club in Eastbourne.
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The signing was part of eBay’s Dream Transfer initiative, support of Football Beyond Borders - a charity that helps disadvantaged young people in the community.
Eni, who has scored 118 career goals, said: “It’s been fantastic to play alongside the ladies from Pevensey and Westham FC.
“Their spirit, sense of community and enthusiasm that I’ve witnessed today is what makes grassroots football so special, and I’m pleased to have helped them achieve their best performance to date.”
Head coach Steve Hadfield said it was a complete honour to have Eni bring excitement to the team and their fans.
“If you had told me last month I would be coaching England legend, Eni Aluko, I would’ve called you crazy,” he said.
“Although I think she was coaching me today.”
Pevensey and Westham FC player Madeleine Gorman said she initially went on eBay to find AstroTurf for her grandson, before bidding to sign Eni.
“Having Eni play for meant so much to the team, including our younger girls squad who watched the game. She’s truly an inspiration, who’s world class on and off the pitch,” she said.
Former footballer turned pundit Chris Kamara also provided commentary for the match.
“What a day, what a game. It’s been brilliant to see friends, family and fans turn out for this match with a great cause behind it, supporting Football Beyond Borders,” he said.
“It’s often during Sunday League games like these when you see the true magic of football and today was no doubt an unforgettable occasion for the communities surrounding Pevensey and Westham FC and Ringmer AFC alike.“
As part of the scheme, Roberto Carlos has also signed for Bull in the Barne United in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, and is due to play a match for the side soon.
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