Wythenshawe, Manchester, is witnessing a football phenomenon that many are calling "just as enjoyable as the Premier League". Wythenshawe FC's Over 35s Veterans team has captured the attention of fans and media alike, not just for their winning record but for the sheer star power on display at Hollyhedge Park.
The team boasts a squad packed with former Premier League players, including names like Papiss Cissé, Emile Heskey, Stephen Ireland, and Joleon Lescott. The team has a total of nine former Premier League players who have made a combined 1,867 appearances in the top flight, scored 222 goals, and earned 389 international caps, also winning 15 major honors. The combined transfer fees of these players amount to a staggering £123 million. Most recently, Jefferson Montero has been added to the already impressive roster.
The idea for this all-star team began organically. Stephen Ireland, who enjoys the fitness aspect of the game, invited some of his former colleagues to join him. The appeal of competitive football, combined with the chance to interact with fans in a more intimate setting, proved irresistible. Ireland emphasized the importance of blending the ex-pros with the existing veteran players, creating a "good mix" and a "humbling experience" for everyone involved.
Their dominance in the Cheshire Veterans Football League Premier Division is undeniable. The team sits at the top of the table with a perfect record of 4 wins from 4 games and a remarkable +32 goal difference. Recent results include a 13-0 victory against South Liverpool Vets, where Papiss Cissé scored six second-half goals, and a 6-2 win against Collegiate Old Boys, with Cissé netting all six goals, including a 32-minute hat-trick. Other impressive wins include 5-2, 7-1, 10-1, and 9-1 scorelines.
The presence of these ex-Premier League stars has significantly boosted the profile of Wythenshawe FC. Carl Barratt, chairman of Wythenshawe AFC, noted the increase in attendance, with 178 people watching a recent game and expecting the numbers to grow.
The players themselves are enjoying the experience. Oumar Niasse, who was convinced to join by Stephen Ireland, expressed his surprise at facing a team from Liverpool wearing Everton shirts, highlighting the unique and sometimes surreal nature of Sunday league football. Even former England defender Joleon Lescott is relishing his new role as a striker, showcasing his versatility and continued passion for the game.
Wythenshawe FC's veterans' team is not just about winning; it's about the love of the game, the camaraderie between players, and the opportunity for fans to witness top-level talent in a local setting.
