Star names from England teams past and present expressed their pride in the nation’s favourite game and praised The FA for its part in football’s history.
They were among those who gathered at the Grand Connaught Rooms in London on Wednesday to help launch The FA’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
During 2013, a whole host of activities and fixtures will take place to commemorate the efforts of all who have helped football become such a massive part of people’s lives in this country and around the world.
And it all began in October 1863 when The FA was founded at the Freemason’s Tavern, where the Grand Connaught Rooms now stand.
“It’s fantastic, and especially in this hotel. This is the original hotel where they actually signed for the rules of the game of football,” said Sir Bobby Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966.
“The FA works really hard, they are much-maligned, but they work really hard to do the correct things and I’m very pleased this has come today. 150 years!”
David Clarke, an England legend with 128 goals in 144 games for the Three Lions Blind Team, says the 150 celebrations will shine a light on the grassroots game.
“There are seven million people playing this game across the country and 400,000 people volunteering to support it.
“It’s a remarkable family and great to celebrate them and recognised what they are doing as well.”
Peter Shilton, England’s most capped player at senior level , was delighted to be a part of the launch, which will kick off a calendar of exciting events, and to see some old familiar faces.
“It’s the who’s who of football, not just in this country but from abroad,” said the former goalkeeper.
“To see some of my team mates and managers I’ve played under is terrific. “
Stoke City striker Michael Owen, who has scored 40 goals in 89 appearances for the Three Lions, echoed Shilton’s sentiments.
“There are players who I have played with at international and club level, my old strike partner Alan Shearer is someone I first saw,” he said.
“Sol Campbell, who I played with for many years with England, Graeme Le Saux, Steve McManaman, I’ve seen plenty.”
Meanwhile, England winger Karen Carney is looking forward to a ‘great year’ as women’s football also takes centre stage 20 years after The FA took over running the game.
The Birmingham City star would have been with Hope Powell’s side in La Manga had she not been injured, but was instead able to attend the Grand Connaught Rooms launch.
“It’s a great day for The FA, and especially for the women’s side,” she said. “It’s going to be a great year for everyone.
“To get the calibre of people in here is not surprising as it’s such a big organisation and football is a massive part of everyone’s life.”
Find out more about The FA's 150th anniversary by clicking here
Watch the full FATV video from the England stars in the media gallery above
