“Hardest Geezer” Russ Cook is ready for his newest challenge – running to all of England’s Euro 2024 matches.
Fresh from running the length of Africa in April Russ, from Worthing, is aiming to complete the 352-mile trek from Wembley Stadium to Gelsenkirchen by Sunday when the Three Lions kick of their tournament against Serbia.
From there he will run to each of England’s two other group stages games – and all the way to the final if they make it.
Russ, 27, thinks Gareth Southgate’s men will be “going all the way” as they look to go one better than their penalty shootout heartbreak in 2021.
He said: “I am buzzing to be back on the road again.
“It’s going to be a race against the clock, but I’m determined to support Gareth and the boys.
“If people spot me along the way please feel free to give me a wave or even run alongside me for a while.
“I want to support the boys. This might be our year, I think we’ll be going all the way.
“I believe in Southgate, I trust the boys, I’m looking forward to watching it all unfold.
“Maybe we’ll get a few running along, joining for the ones and twos in between the games.
“It will be wicked, I’m looking forward to getting out there.”
He raised more than £1 million for The Running Charity and will be fundraising for it again through sponsorship by Sports Direct.
England kick off their Euro 2024 campaign next week at the Veltins Arena against Serbia before facing Denmark and Slovenia.
The Three Lions, including Albion captain Lewis Dunk, are among the favourites to win the tournament alongside France and hosts Germany.
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