Peter Crouch returns to the pitch six years after retiring as a striker as he tries his hand at American football in London

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On Sunday, Peter Crouch made a surprising return to competitive sports, stepping onto the field six years after ending his career as a soccer striker. He traded his cleats for a different kind of uniform, giving American football a try.

The Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings, two US football teams, played a game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, with a large crowd in attendance.

Former England footballer Peter, 44, got the crowd excited before trying a 25-yard field goal, venturing into a new sport.

Although Peter’s throw covered a great distance, it unfortunately missed the target. This was a letdown for the former player, who had represented England in two World Cups.

For the game, Peter was wearing a special NFL jersey that was sponsored by Paddy Power. He also had on a white t-shirt and a pair of blue jeans.

This game between the two US American football teams marks the 40th regular season NFL game played in London.

Oh my gosh, you guys, I’m SO excited! I can’t believe there are two more NFL games coming to London! First, next Sunday, I get to see the New York Jets play the Denver Broncos at the amazing Tottenham Hotspur Stadium! And then, on October 19th, it’s the Jacksonville Jaguars versus the Los Angeles Rams at Wembley! I’m literally counting down the days!

Peter’s tryout with an NFL team follows a recent, amusing incident where he led Farnham Town, a non-league soccer team, onto the field. This happened because he finished last in his fantasy football league last season, and it was his penalty.

During his time as a player, the tall forward has played on some of the most famous and respected pitches in the world.

However, last month, Peter returned to playing in a very different environment – the Memorial Ground in Surrey, which has a capacity of 2500 spectators.

Wearing his new team’s jersey, the ex-Liverpool and Spurs player walked onto the field as a mascot before their Southern League Premier Division South game against rivals Sholing, who were also competing for promotion.

His entrance onto the field was met with applause from his colleagues on The Peter Crouch Podcast, Chris Stark and ex-Chelsea player Steve Sidwell.

Steve posted several short videos from the game on his social media accounts. One particularly funny clip featured Peter proudly displaying the gift bag he received as part of his mascot duties.

Oh my gosh, you will NOT believe what Peter just showed me! He was so proud, listing off all his amazing finds. First, he pulled out a bag of Haribos – seriously, the best! Then came these Maryland cookies, which I’m *dying* to try. But the best part? A whole set of Farnham Town badges! I mean, he’s such a dedicated fan, it’s adorable! I’m so jealous of his haul!

Led onto the field by Farnham’s Jack Dean, the 6ft 7in Peter looked somewhat out of place, completely blocking the view of the opposing defender as the teams stood in formation before the game began.

The fun didn’t end when the action got underway, however.

Oh my gosh, you will NOT believe this! Peter wasn’t just *playing* in the game, he was the star of the half-time show too! They had a penalty shootout, and he actually *volunteered* to be the goalkeeper! I was screaming! He really tested his skills, you know? It was amazing to watch him try and save those goals. Seriously, he was so brave and I was so proud! It was such a central role for him, even off the field!

Playing before a packed audience, he also had an opportunity to win everyone a complimentary drink by striking the crossbar, but his long-distance shot just missed.

He also happily took pictures with excited fans, who were surprised and delighted to see the legendary former Premier League player.

However, the disruptions didn’t seem to affect Paul Johnson’s team, as the newly promoted side managed a 2-2 draw, continuing their impressive unbeaten run at the beginning of the season.

Peter received praise from fans on social media because he readily agreed to the funny challenge and didn’t hesitate to put himself in a humorous position. His dedication and good humor were well-received.

Fans wrote: ‘Can’t believe you went through with it, but fair play to you,’;

What a great afternoon of football! You were an amazing mascot – we loved watching you walk out with the player and stand proudly in front of them! You had my son and me laughing a lot in the crowd!

What a fantastic day, Peter! You really brought in a good crowd – a few hundred people, it looks like – and you gave the children a day they’ll always remember.

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2025-10-05 19:04