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The England men’s team will play without names on the back of their shirts during the second half of their friendly against Belgium on Tuesday as part of their partnership with Alzheimer’s Society.
This change from the first half to the second half of the game is designed to draw attention to memory loss, the most commonly associated symptom of dementia, which is caused by Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s Society reports that dementia “is the UK’s biggest health and social care crisis” and one in three people born in the country will be diagnosed with the illness.
England’s partnership with Alzheimer’s Society began in 2022, when the men’s friendly against Switzerland was designated the first Alzheimer’s Society International. England women’s friendly against Australia last April was the second such match.
The #ThreeLions will play without names on their shirts during the second half of tomorrow’s @alzheimerssoc International to highlight memory loss as one of the symptoms of dementia ❤️
— England (@England) March 25, 2024
“We hope this striking gesture with the players’ shirts will once again get fans across the country talking, and thinking about the signs and symptoms of dementia,” Alzheimer’s Society CEO Kate Lee said.
“By using football to shine a spotlight and increase awareness of dementia symptoms, we hope to not only encourage fans to donate towards our early diagnosis research, but also to support their loved ones just as much as they support their football team.
“This means taking crucial first steps in seeking a diagnosis if they suspect someone they care about may be affected. A diagnosis can be daunting but it’s better to know.”
England’s game against Belgium at Wembley Stadium comes three days after their 1-0 defeat by Brazil.
Harry Kane, Harry Maguire, Kyle Walker and Sam Johnstone will not be available for the match after leaving the England camp due to injuries. Rico Lewis and James Trafford have been added to the squad from the under-21s as a result.
(Alex Livesey – Danehouse/Getty Images)
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