Williams pulls out of Soccer Aid event

Rex Features

Robbie Williams has pulled out of September's Soccer Aid event with a knee injury.

The former Take That star was expected to captain the England team in a charity match against a Rest Of The World XI helmed by Gordon Ramsay.

Speaking about his withdrawal, Williams told The Sun: "I'm gutted that this time around my knee isn't up to it - but unfortunately I'm out of the game.

"It's such a shame because being able to help so many people was one of the highlights of my life."

Other celebrities in the England team include Jamie Theakston, Ben Shephard, Kyran Bracken and Gareth Gates.

Ramsay's team will include Westlife's Nicky Byrne, Patrick Kielty and cricketer Brian Lara.

The match, which raises case for UNICEF, will be aired on ITV.