Niall Horan Returns To World XI Team For Soccer Aid

World-renowned popstar Niall Horan last played for Soccer Aid in the 2016 tournament, facing off against his One Direction bandmate Louis Tomlinson and eventually losing 3-2 to England.

Co-founded by Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes back in 2006, Soccer Aid sees celebrities and ex-professional footballers join forces in aid of the UN children's charity UNICEF. This year, Horan will rejoin the World XI Team with teammates Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man, and Didier Drogba, the former Chelsea striker.

We're back 💙⚽️⭐️

Come out to play with #SoccerAid for @UNICEF_uk and buy your Stamford Bridge tickets or hospitality here 👉https://t.co/yYe3GFy2FG pic.twitter.com/YIbcbF2X8Q

— Soccer Aid (@socceraid) March 26, 2019

Speaking on the forthcoming match, Horan said: "I was gutted to miss Soccer Aid for Unicef last time, so I'm over the moon to be back for this year's game.

"Football was pretty much all I did when I was a kid, kicking the ball against the wall until the sun went down.

"To know that we're playing this year to help children everywhere play, no matter where they are, and just like we did back then, means so much."

He added: "It's always an amazing thing to be a part of, and I can't wait to get back on that pitch!"

Former manager Harry Redknapp and Good Morning Britain's Piers Morgan will be in charge of Horan and the World team, with former Everton and England boss Sam Allardyce and Morgan's Good Morning Britain co-host Susanna Reid managing the England XI.

This year's match will take place at The Blues' Stamford Bridge stadium on 16 June.