SOCCER Aid fans were treated to a surprise Sam Thompson appearance – as he came on as a sub just days after pulling out.
The Sun revealed Sam, 32, had been ruled out of playing due to injuries sustained in his epic marathon challenge.
Sam Thompson made a surprise Soccer Aid appearance[/caption]
He had been announced to have pulled out due to injury[/caption]
Sam with his teammate Tom Grennan[/caption]
He made the gruelling 260-mile trip from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford via foot and bike.
Despite this, the former Made in Chelsea star ultimately did join his teammates on the pitch.
It meant he played in the same England side as One Direction star Louis Tomlinson, 33, who is now dating Sam’s ex Zara McDermott.
The couple split in December, with Zara moving on with Louis.
Sam and Louis were pictured training this week at Soccer Aid HQ in Tring, Herts, where the England and Rest of the World teams are preparing for the match.
In the end, World XI ultimately claimed the win courtesy of a goal from Big Zuu.
Regarding Sam’s initial exit, a source said previously: “Sam is gutted he can’t play, but the match has just come too soon since his efforts.
“He’s still going to be a presence and play a big part in the coverage but he won’t be able to compete on the field.”
The source added: “There is a small blessing in his withdrawal as the focus on him and Louis will disperse.
“Their every move will be watched so it’s a relief in some ways they won’t be on the pitch together.”
Jill Scott captained the England team, with other stars such as Mo Farah, Alex Brooker and Tom Grennan also taking part.
Elsewhere, Paddy McGuinness was left starstruck at the event when he shared a selfie with a Hollywood legend.
The presenter – who played in goal for England‘s team- posed for a picture with Julia Roberts.
Paddy captioned: “Just chilling with Jules. @juliaroberts @socceraid #legend #icon.”
Soccer Aid 2025
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A follower commented: “As you do. She’s just a girl sat in front of a boy”, referencing Julia’s role in Notting Hill.”
Another wrote: “This photo makes me ridiculously happy! Absolute stars!”
A third shared: “You are a lucky lucky man.”
While a fourth wrote: “Can’t believe she’s there.”
Paddy McGuinness shared a selfie with Julia Roberts[/caption]
