England Squad's Unique Pastime at 2022 World Cup
Former England manager Gareth Southgate revealed that the team passed time between matches and training at the Qatar World Cup by playing their own version of the popular BBC show The Traitors.
The Traitors Game Concept
In the original show, contestants are secretly divided into two groups: "Faithfuls" and "Traitors". The Traitors try to covertly "murder" Faithfuls during the night to win the prize, while Faithfuls attempt to identify and banish the Traitors before being eliminated.
Wolves and Villagers: England’s Adaptation
The England players called their version Wolves and Villagers, closely following the show's concept. During the tournament, they enjoyed playing this game to bond and unwind.
Robbie Williams Surprises the Team
One night, the England squad welcomed a special guest: international singer Robbie Williams. While performing in Doha, he visited the team’s hotel to boost morale before their quarter-final match against France.
- Williams serenaded the players by the pool with some of his hit songs.
- He joined the card game and humorously labeled striker Harry Kane as a "werewolf".
"The players loved it!" – Gareth Southgate on the team’s enjoyment of the game and Williams’ visit.
This unexpected visit and the game created a memorable and uplifting atmosphere for the team during the intense World Cup schedule.
Author's Summary
Gareth Southgate shared how England's 2022 World Cup team relaxed by playing a version of The Traitors, highlighted by Robbie Williams surprising and joining in to lift spirits.