ITV is set to put some of the biggest names from the England football team during the 80s and 90s through their paces.
The commercial broadcaster has ordered a two-part entertainment special, titled Match Fit, that challenges them to get back in shape and onto the pitch one last time. This England team, led by manager Harry Redknapp, is a who’s who of former 80s and 90s legends including: John Barnes, David Seaman, Robbie Fowler, Mark Wright, Matthew Le Tissier, Chris Waddle, Rob Lee, Ray Parlour, Lee Sharpe, Mark Chamberlain, Paul Merson, and Razor Ruddock.
The specials will follow the team, who played in an era when a few pints and kebabs were all part of the working week, as they are yanked out of their very comfortable zone and plunged into a new regime akin to that of present day professional footballers. The extreme change to their fitness and diet routines will shed light on how important it is for everyone to maintain a healthy balanced diet and fitness routine as you approach middle age.
The players will be constantly monitored to see how well they’re keeping on track ahead of the big match. Will they be able to stick to the new training regime, fit back into their 90’s England kits and beat a team of 90s international rivals? Match Fit was developed by Laura Gibson and Charlie Bennett and is being produced by Talkback. Ben Duncan is the series director, while Emma Taylor is the producer. The executive producers are Ceri Jones, Leon Wilson and Ed Sleeman.
“We’re thrilled to be working with ITV on this unique and epic new series”, said Leon Wilson, Managing Director of Talkback. “Bringing together some of England’s greatest footballers of all time, we’re looking forward to seeing if they can ditch their unhealthy habits, to get match fit, back in their kits and on the pitch, doing what they do best.”
