Andy Milne, the fan-favourite and Steve McClaren look-alike, has made his way to Australia to cheer on the Lionesses ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup opening matches.
Known for his passionate support and resemblance to former English football player Steve McClaren, Andy went viral during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for his lovable enthusiasm.
Spotted near Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge, Andy joined England supporters for selfies, some of whom were wearing face masks resembling his lookalike. He even brought along a replica trophy to add to the excitement.
Andy has been a dedicated England fan, attending every Men’s World Cup since he was 19. However, this is his first time attending a Women’s World Cup.
Tourism Australia extended a warm invitation for Andy and his daughter Laila, 27, who is currently living in Sydney, to attend the tournament together.
Andy, originally from Northwich, Cheshire, has been a strong advocate for women’s sports. He played a significant role in establishing the girls’ football team at The Grange School in Cheshire, ensuring his daughter Laila had the opportunity to participate.
Expressing his excitement for the trip, Andy said, “My favourite thing about the World Cup is meeting new people in new places, and there’s no place more welcoming than Australia. Since I arrived, everyone I’ve met has been wonderful, and I can’t wait to meet more locals and fans and soak up the positive and inviting atmosphere. This is my first Women’s World Cup, and I’m absolutely buzzing to be Down Under for it. It’s going to be incredible to watch England take on Haiti this weekend, and hopefully, football is coming home.”
England, the reigning European Champions, will face Haiti in their first game on Saturday, 20 July, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland.
Sally Cope, Tourism Australia’s Regional General Manager for the UK & Northern Europe, expressed the country’s excitement, stating, “Sport is a big part of Aussie culture, and we love how it brings people together. When we heard about Andy, someone who has been a passionate supporter of football for decades and enjoys meeting new people while cheering on his home country, we knew we had to invite him to come and say ‘g’day’ and be part of the Women’s World Cup.”
Andy will stay in Australia for a week to support Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses in their opening match and also watch the Matildas take on Ireland’s Girls in Green on Thursday, 20 July. He has also had the opportunity to meet up with footy mad TikToker @samanthajademiller in Sydney.
