THE FOOTBALL League have confirmed that Natalie Coyle will now be singing the National Anthem before the final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at Wembley.
Hundreds of Southend United's supporters contacted Echosport to vent their fury after Soccer AM presenters Helen Chamberlain and Max Rushden were originally booked in to perform ahead of the game with Crewe Alexandra on Sunday April 7.
But the Football League's Head of Communications, John Nagle has now revealed that the duo have decided to pull out.
"Having committed themselves to an intensive course of singing lessons, Max and Helen were absolutely serious about leading the Anthem singing and fully respecting the occasion,” explained Nagle.
“But following vocal opposition from some supporters, all parties agree with Helen and Max’s decision to withdraw and Natalie Coyle will now sing the National Anthem in the pre-match build-up.”
The Football League had been due to donate the singing fee to Prostate Cancer UK when Chamberlain and Rushden were booked to sing.
And they will still be making a donation equivalent to its normal fee, despite the change.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel