Londoner to play for England at Veterans World Cup in Cardiff

An east Londoner is due to represent England in the Veterans World Cup.

Richard Gentle, from Romford, has been playing football all his life and is “absolutely looking forward” to heading to the Welsh capital Cardiff for this year’s tournament.

The competition, which runs from Tuesday to Friday, is for players aged over 70.

Mr Gentle said: “When you put that shirt on with the Three Lions on it, you are representing your country, the pride and dignity you have when you put it on is unbelievable: even now I can feel the hairs on the back of my neck standing up.”

A friend put Mr Gentle’s name forward for the World Cup trials for England in 2021 and from there it just “took off”, he said.

The grandfather said that by still playing football into his 70s, his mental and physical health had both benefitted.

“You don’t lose contact with your friends so you’re not lonely,” he said.

“We all need that team situation – it is great.”

Mr Gentle plays football at least three times a week with training and said he felt “super fit” for his age.

He said his grandson was “chuffed that grandad plays for England”.

“Football’s been my life, I’ve grown up with it for so many years,” said Mr Gentle.

“If it was taken away from me tomorrow – I think I’d be quite devastated about that fact because I know the benefits I have received by continually playing my football to this day.”