Jason Manford is set to take part in ‘Soccer Aid 2020’.
The 39-year-old comedian played in the United Relief Live charity game a decade ago, during which he was booked for taking off his charity top off to reveal a Manchester City replica shirt underneath at Old Trafford – the home of City’s rivals Manchester United – and he will return to the stadium this September for the charity game.
An insider told The Sun newspaper’s Bizarre TV column: "Jason’s last appearance on the pitch at Old Trafford was unforgettable so it’s hoped he’ll be back on top form this time around.
"It’s been 10 years since that charity game but he’s raring to get on the pitch. Given Jason’s previous lack of goal-scoring, it’s unlikely he’ll be up front for the World XI FC, who play England."
The annual charity celebrity football match was due to kick off at Old Trafford on June 6th, but the game was put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Olly Murs and Usain Bolt had initially signed up as captains of England and World XI respectively, but as the game has been pushed back three months it is unclear whether the original players can still commit to the match.
The England team was due to feature McFly’s Danny Jones and comedians Joel Dommett and Russell Howard.
Olympian Bolt was to lead out the World XI team, which consisted of TV chef Gordon Ramsay and ‘Love Island’ winner Kem Cetinay, among others.
The insider added: "Planning ‘Soccer Aid’ is a huge operation so it’s not been easy given the circumstances – but it’s shaping up to be one of the best line-ups they’ve ever had.
"Organisers are pulling together the teams at the moment and are hoping that those who previously signed up will still be able to take part."