Why is Spice Girl Mel C co-managing the World XI in Soccer Aid?

Soccer Aid 2023 takes place at Old Trafford on Sunday between England and a World XI side - and Spice Girls icon Mel C is part of the latter's management team.

The yearly event, set up by Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes in 2006, raises money for the children's charity UNICEF.

It is contested between a mixture of celebrities, former professional footballers and professionals from the world of sport - and there is plenty of competition involved.

Last year's event at the London Stadium saw the World XI win a dramatic penalty shootout, with Lee Mack scoring the winning penalty.

And the World XI have recruited strongly in their attempt to back up their success from last season, with new Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino taking charge of a side that contains the likes of Francesco Totti, Nani, Usain Bolt and Leon Edwards.

Spice Girl Mel C will also be a part of the coaching staff.

Why is Mel C managing World XI?

The world-famous pop singer, dubbed 'Sporty Spice', forms part of a management team quartet that also involves Robbie Keane and Line of Duty star Martin Compston.

After being announced as part of the World XI contingent, she said: "To have the opportunity to take part in this year's Soccer Aid for UNICEF is an incredible honour for me. UNICEF's work around the world is an inspiration to us all and I am delighted to lend my support to them.

"Everyone knows that I'm a Liverpool fan, so I particularly want to do well at Old Trafford and come away with a win - just as Liverpool have done a lot over the years!"

Mel C - full name Melanie Chisholm - was born in Merseyside, and was educated in England before moving to Los Angeles aged 18.

In an interview with the Irish Mirror in 2020, Mel C confirmed that she has Irish roots through her grandmother, and says she has 'a few Irish connections'.