This evening (June 9) will see Soccer Aid 2024 take place at host Stamford Bridge – the one day of the year when fans can see reality TV stars, comedians and big-time actors battle it out on the pitch.

The England and World XI teams starring the likes of former Lioness Jill Scott, EastEnders’ Bobby Brazier, Sir Mo Farah and Line of Duty’s Vicky McClure (plus so many more including legends such as Jermain Defoe) will be showing off their football skills for charity.

Among them will be Not Going Out star Lee Mack, but eager viewers may have noticed the comedian who is from Southport in the North West isn’t playing for England.

Mack is in fact playing for The World XI team along with some new and returning faces in the annual charity match for UNICEF – but why?

This is why Lee Mack doesn't play for England in Soccer Aid 

The 55-year-old, who now lives in East Molesey, Surrey, with his wife Tara and their three children will be playing for The World XI due to his Irish heritage.

The host of ITV’s The 1% Club found out about his family history when he went on BBC’s iconic Who Do You Think You Are? in 2018.

Has Lee Mack scored in Soccer Aid?

Mack has made a number of appearances for Soccer Aid in the past and even scored a winning penalty in 2022.

He used to play for the England team before discovering his Irish roots.

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You can see the full line-up of those taking part in Soccer Aid 2024 here, from former footballers, celebrities and managers.

The charity match will be hosted by Dermot O’Leary, a role which he has held since 2010.

Fans can watch it live on ITV1 and ITVX from 6pm with kick-off at 7.30pm.

The Radio Times summary reads: “Dermot O'Leary and Alex Scott present live coverage of the charity fixture, which takes place at Stamford Bridge.

“An England team of celebrities and footballing legends including Sam Thompson, Mo Farah and Jill Scott go head-to-head with a World XI featuring Usain Bolt, Lee Mack and Eden Hazard in aid of the children's charity. Plus, a special half-time performance by Tom Walker.”