Soccer greats to turn out in England and St. Lucia national team kits for Keith Alexander benefit game

Monday, April 19, 2010 – The fixture on Monday 3rd May at Sincil Bank Stadium, Lincoln, UK (ko 3pm) will see a Keith Alexander XI, managed by Keith’s assistant at Lincoln and Macclesfield Manager Gary Simpson, take on an All Star XI, managed by Peterborough FC Chariman-Barry Fry and former England International Paul Ince.

The two sides, which will include a host of current and ex-professionals that have been influenced by Keith Alexander throughout their careers, will wear the kits of the two national sides for the game.

The Saint Lucia national team kit will feature yellow socks that Keith was renowned for wearing on the touchline, while it will also feature the Sacred Sports Foundation logo, which Keith and his family helped set up to benefit the people of Saint Lucia. Legendary names such as Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Paul Merson, Ray Parlour, and Des Walker will be wearing the England national team kit in memory of Keith.

The England kit meanwhile will feature the “Kick it Out” logo, another organisation that was close to Keith’s heart.

“We are honoured to be able to donate Saint Lucia national team kit for Keith Alexander’s Benefit game,” said Patrick Mathurin, president of the Saint Lucia Football Association.

“Keith was an inspirational figure and manager. He was in the midst of tremendous work here in St. Lucia working closely with us at the Saint Lucia Football Association and his legacy lives on through his Sacred Sports Foundation, continues to work in partnership for the development of football on the Island.”

Chairman of Lincoln City, Steff Wright said, “Keith put far more into football than he took out of the game and there is a desire within the football world to give something back to Keith’s family. There has been enthusiasm from everyone we have spoken to and I am sure it will be a fitting tribute.”

The FA's Director of Football Development, Sir Trevor Brooking, paid his own tribute to Alexander.

“The first thing to say is that Keith was a truly genuine and decent individual,” said Brooking. “Anyone who was fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him would say that of him. He worked hard, and applied himself to coaching and deserved all the success that came his way.”

Keith Alexander died suddenly on March 3rd 2010. He was a pioneer in British football, becoming the first black full-time professional manager and a UEFA pro license coach. The Sacred Sports Foundation he started in Saint Lucia will continue to build a lasting legacy devoted to the development of disadvantaged youth. His legacy will live on and his spirit will continue to impact a new generation.

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