Ed Sheeran surprises England squad with performance ahead of World Cup quarter-final
England fans have been left amused after spotting what they believe were some less-than-impressed reactions from Three Lions stars during a surprise performance by Ed Sheeran at the team’s World Cup base, reports BritPanorama.
The singer-songwriter paid a private visit to Thomas Tuchel’s squad following England’s final group-stage match against Panama, performing an acoustic set for players and staff by the pool at their hotel in Kansas. Footage of the performance, featured in the latest episode of England’s Extra Time YouTube series, quickly went viral after supporters began analysing the players’ expressions.
Sheeran performed his hit “Castle On The Hill,” but several fans claimed a number of England players appeared far from captivated by the intimate gig. John Stones, Morgan Rogers, and Noni Madueke were among those whose facial expressions attracted attention online, while others pointed to what they felt was restrained applause from James Trafford and Ivan Toney.
Despite the online jokes, other footage from the visit painted a more relaxed picture. Captain Harry Kane warmly greeted Sheeran on his arrival, while Morgan Rogers also welcomed the musician before the performance. Anthony Gordon was seen chatting with the singer, while Stones appeared to share a laugh with him before the squad gathered for a group photograph.
Sheeran explained that visits to the England camp have become a tradition after Harry Kane first invited him during Euro 2021. “It’s been great, it’s been a nice little tradition,” Sheeran noted, reflecting on his ongoing rapport with the team.
Now, as the team prepares for Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway, Sheeran expressed his optimism, confidently predicting an England victory in a potential final against France. “I think it’ll be an England-France final,” he asserted. “I think when you get to the final anyone can win and I think it will be us.”
In a tournament where expectations run high, such unexpected moments encapsulate the delicate balance of levity and pressure within elite sport. As England players prepare for a crucial match, they are reminded that camaraderie is as vital as technique, even if it comes with a side of bemusement.
