Guernsey footballer to captain England's over-75s this summer

Monday, 20 April 2026 14:30

Guernsey's Home of Football has signed a sponsorship deal with a local footballer who will captain the England over-75s again this year.

Guernsey man Geoff Martel, who celebrated his 81st birthday this month, is currently leading the England over-75s football team.

He's been part of the national veteran squad since 2022 and led the team to victory at the 2024 Veterans World Cup in Cardiff.

The campaign this year, which Geoff is once again captaining, has already got off to a strong start.

England had a 2-0 win against Wales in the Aneurin Bevan Shield match at Barry Town United FC, where Geoff was named Man of the Match.

In May, the team faces the USA in Denmark.

On 30 July, the vets play Germany in Manchester, 60 years after England’s 1966 World Cup win.

Guernsey's home of football, Victoria Park, has signed a sponsorship deal with Geoff, covering his travel expenses.

He says he is grateful for the support.

“Football has opened up some incredible opportunities for me over the years, both here in Guernsey and further afield.

"Travelling off island to represent England is always an honour; however, it can be challenging, particularly from a financial perspective.

"I’m grateful to Victoria Park for supporting me in this next campaign, and hope it will inspire other islanders to pursue a long-term love of football.”

Victoria Park Director, Rob Jones, says the sponsorship is a part of their ethos.

“Part of our mission at Victoria Park is to support enhanced experiences and create a lifelong journey within the game.

"Geoff is a testament to what can be achieved at both a local and international level.

"We’re thrilled to support him and the England team in this exciting campaign, and hope that they have the chance to rewrite the history books when they take on Germany later this year.”