A group of footballers who make up England’s over-75s side is gearing up for a match against Germany to mark the 60th anniversary of the country’s only World Cup win.
The team, known as the Silver Lions, have worked alongside 1966 World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst as part of preparations for the game on 30 July at Boundary Park, Oldham.
“It’s normal football, 11-a-side, on a full-size pitch, same rules as always and it’s exciting and enjoyable at our age to still be involved in football,” said team member Johnny Molloy.
The 77-year-old’s niece Tracy Willits, a lecturer at the University of York St John, organised the game as part of a documentary she is making.
“It’s always fascinated me that at that age people are playing that level of sport, so I thought it would make a nice documentary,” she said.
“I had a word with the Germans, they were up for it and now it’s built up to this massive occasion and quite frankly I am very nervous about it, but I am also very excited,” she adds.
As part of preparations for the game, the Silver Lions, have been taking fitness checks at the university to ensure they are match fit to face a well-trained German side.
“The match means so much to me. It’s one of the most special moments in my life,” Günter Christmann, the German manager, said.
Sir Geoff agreed: “Marvellous now we’re seeing this game at Oldham, celebrating 60 years.”
Molloy, who is originally from Gateshead but now lives in Grimsby, said he had always dreamed of playing for England and is happy he has been given this opportunity later on in life.
“My dad said ‘Johnny you’ll play for Newcastle and England one day’ and he was right.
“I wish I listened because I play for England now and I keep my boots by the side of my bed in case [Newcastle manager] Eddie Howe needs me,” he says.
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