Ian Wright and Emma Hayes to receive Nordoff Robbins Legends of Football Award

Legends of Football, in aid of Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy, will induct Arsenal and England legend Ian Wright and Chelsea Women’s FC manager, Emma Hayes, into its Hall of Fame later this year at its annual star-studded event at London’s Grosvenor House on October 2, 2023.

The pair will be officially unveiled at the event, joining a stellar line-up of recipients including Pelé, David Beckham, Arsène Wenger and most recently, England manager, Gareth Southgate and Lioness hero, Ellen White.

On accepting the award, Wright said: “It’s an absolute honour to receive the 2023 Legends of Football award. To be recognised alongside some of the game’s greatest figures in the Legends of Football Hall of Fame, including my old boss, Arsène Wenger is unbelievable.

“Music has been so powerful for me throughout my life and career, and to see how Nordoff Robbins use music to help people connect and communicate is truly special. I’m really looking forward to a great night of football, music and fundraising at Grosvenor House in October.”

On the announcement of her award, Hayes commented: ‘‘I’m thrilled to be recognised amongst some of the biggest names in the game and can’t wait to join the illustrious company in the Legends of Football Hall of Fame. I’m delighted to accept the award alongside a true footballing legend in the shape of Ian Wright and look forward to celebrating on the night.

“It’s an honour to be associated with such an amazing charity like Nordoff Robbins, they play a hugely important role in improving the lives of people across society through music. Music therapy is such a creative way of communicating with people, and I hope any money raised through the event can continue to support the incredible progress that’s been made so far.’’

Described by Sir Alex Ferguson as “the best night in the football social calendar”, the Legends of Football event is an annual charity fundraising night, supported by the Premier League, in aid of music therapy charity, Nordoff Robbins. The event has raised a staggering £8.5 million to date since 1997 when John Charles CBE was the first recipient.

Geoff Shreeves, Sky Sports presenter and Legends of Football chairman commented: ‘‘We’re delighted to be honouring Ian Wright and Emma Hayes, both fitting recipients of the 2023 Legends of Football award. As one of the greatest marksmen of his generation, Ian’s career was truly legendary. Prolific throughout England’s football pyramid, he took the path less trodden to become Arsenal’s greatest goalscorer, winning the Premier League and FA Cup twice as part of an unparalleled era of success at the club.

‘‘Emma’s Chelsea sides have been the standard bearers of women’s football in this country for the best part of a decade, with Emma at the forefront of their phenomenal success throughout. Her passion for the game knows no bounds and her influence on the sport in this country and across the world is seismic, with Emma’s ferocious work-rate and determination playing a huge part in making the women’s game what it is today. Hers and Ian’s induction into the Legends of Football Hall of Fame is thoroughly deserved and we’re delighted to have them both on board as ambassadors for Legends of Football and Nordoff Robbins.’’

Sandra Schembri, CEO, Nordoff Robbins, said: “Music and sport go hand in hand, and we can't wait to be back at Grosvenor House for this year's Legends of Football ceremony, with Ian Wright and Emma Hayes as our incredibly worthy recipients. On behalf of Nordoff Robbins, I’d like to thank Ian, Emma and everyone involved in the event for their hard work and dedication – every penny raised goes directly towards our music therapy delivery, helping us to create space for people to express themselves and connect with others through the power of music.”

Headliner spoke to Shreeves ahead of last year’s Legends of Football event about why his involvement in the event is the achievement he is most proud of.

We also spoke to Schembri about the vital work of the organisation and the support it needs to continue in its endeavours.