England Legend Dusts Off Boots For Sussex Sunday League Side After Signing For A Fiver!

Wednesday, 23 February 2022 10:39

By Dominic Kureen @WriteOnDom

An England international with more than 100 caps to her name dusted off her boots to make an appearance for a Sussex Sunday League football club at the weekend — for the princely fee of £5!

Eastbourne-based New Pevensey and Westham FC landed ex-Chelsea forward Eni Aluko, who hung her boots up two years ago.

Playing at Langney Sports Club in Eastbourne, the women’s football team played against local opposition Ringmer AFC.

Iconic commentator Chris Kamara hosted the match, detailing the games’ twists and turns as Eni Aluko was subbed on for number six, Jasmin Beal, in the first half.

Lighting up the game with her footwork and tenacity, the 102-cap attacker inspired her temporary team to their best display of the season.

Aluko said:

"It’s been fantastic to play alongside the ladies from Pevensey and Westham FC.

"The 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.”

Set up in 2020, Pevensey And Westham FC provides a footballing opportunity for women of all ages and levels. With a variety of experience and sporting backgrounds, each member has brought their own attributes to the club’s first competitive season.

Eni Aluko during her Juventus days

Steve Hadfield, head coach for Pevensey And Westham FC said:

“If you had told me last month I would be ‘coaching’ England legend, Eni Aluko, I would’ve called you crazy - although I think she was coaching me today! It’s been a complete honour to have her bring so much excitement to the team and our fans.”

Aluko and fellow legend Roberto Carlos were contracted to non-professional English sides for one game, after the winning teams entered a £5 ticket raffle, with all proceeds being donated to social-inclusion charity Football Beyond Borders.

Founded in 2013, the charity was set up to change the lives of young people who may be passionate about football but not fulfilling their potential at school.

More than 2,000 young people have already benefited from its programmes.

Chris Kamara said:

“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.

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.“

Diminutive 102-cap forward Aluko enjoyed a decorated playing career, which included spells in England, the US and Italy — becoming a staple at international level — before being appointed as director of women's football at Aston Villa and, most recently, sporting director of Los Angeles-based Angel City FC.