A private performance by singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran for the England national football team during their World Cup preparations has drawn attention, not for the music itself, but for the players' perceived lack of enthusiasm. Footage from the event, released as part of England's "Extra Time" series on YouTube, shows Sheeran performing an acoustic rendition of "Castle On The Hill" by the pool at the team's hotel.
Fans observing the released clips pointed out the impassive expressions of several players, including John Stones and Morgan Rogers, as well as what they described as muted applause from James Trafford and Ivan Toney. This reaction led to widespread online commentary, with some supporters joking about the players' apparent disinterest and humorously linking it to a desire for the team to win the tournament.
Despite the online observations of player reactions, other moments captured in the video show Sheeran being welcomed by captain Harry Kane and Rogers. The singer was also seen in conversation with Anthony Gordon and sharing a laugh with Stones while posing for a team photograph.
Sheeran himself described his performances for the squad as a tradition, initiated after an invitation from Harry Kane during the European Championships in 2021. "Since the first time I played for the lads in 2021 we've bonded, so it's never a tough crowd," Sheeran stated in the "Extra Time" episode. He expressed confidence in England's prospects in the tournament, predicting a final match against France.
The England squad is currently preparing for their quarter-final match against Norway. The team advanced after a close match against DR Congo in the last-32 and a subsequent 3-2 victory over Mexico in the round of 16.