AN ENGLAND international footballer has signed for a Sunday league football club in Sussex for £5.
Eni Aluko, who has made 102 appearances for England, has joined Pevensey and Westham FC after the club entered a £5 raffle on eBay.
The former Chelsea and Juventus forward will play in a one-off match for the Sussex club, which is scheduled to take place in February.
Madeleine Gorman, who plays for Pevensey and Westham FC, said she hopes Eni, who has scored 118 career goals, will help the side pick up their first win of the season.
“I still can’t believe we’re really going to have Eni Aluko playing up front for Pevensey and Westham, and no doubt putting away some amazing goals,” she said.
“It means so much to the team and all the friends and family that she’ll be coming into the community, especially the young girls who love the Lionesses.”
Discussing the signing, Eni said: “Things for me are really interesting stateside right now, but I'm genuinely so excited to play for Pevensey and Westham F.C and return to where it all started - on the community football field.
“I'm ready to bring my A game to help these players make their mark as the new team on the block, so watch out for some goals.”
The signing is part of eBay’s Dream Transfer initiative, support of Football Beyond Borders - a charity that helps disadvantaged young people in the community.
Former footballer turned pundit Chris Kamara will be providing commentary for both matches.
Set up in 2020 by the club’s head coach and secretary, Pevensey and Westham FC provides an opportunity for women of all ages and levels.
As part of the scheme, Roberto Carlos has also signed for Bull in the Barne United in Shrewsbury, Shropshire.
The World Cup winner said: “I'm excited to play for Bull in the Barne in Shrewsbury, paying homage to when I nearly signed for Birmingham City in the 90s, which is very close by.
“I've heard that the team's been down a number of players this season, so here’s hoping my training is enough to help them up their game and bring what Bull in the Barne’s fans want to see.”
Matt Pywowar, head of fundraising at Football Beyond Borders, said: “The response to our partnership with eBay for Charity on Dream Transfer has been fantastic.
“The campaign is proof of the uniting power football has, as each raffle entry will make a difference to support young people across the UK, and help us to support their communities in different ways.”
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