Louis Rees-Zammit, who recently ditched rugby for American Football, recently shared an intriguing anecdote involving legendary Manchester United figure Paul Scholes and his pursuit to have the talented wing sensation don the England jersey.
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Rees-Zammit elaborated on the unique connection he had with Scholes, stemming from his past relationship with Scholes’ daughter. This personal link led to Scholes closely monitoring the progress of the young rugby star.
Scholes, widely recognised for his footballing exploits, surprised many by revealing his passion for rugby. He took to Instagram to voice his support, hinting at the possibility of Rees-Zammit making his debut for the England rugby team.
This proclamation came hot on the heels of Rees-Zammit’s scintillating performance, where he scored an impressive hat-trick against Northampton, further cementing his status as a rising star in the competitive Gallagher Premiership.
In a noteworthy gesture of support, Scholes even attended a match at Kingsholm to witness Rees-Zammit’s exceptional skills firsthand. This occurred just before lockdown measures were imposed, highlighting Scholes’ genuine interest in the young player’s burgeoning rugby career.
Delving into the backstory of this fascinating relationship, Rees-Zammit candidly shared with the BBC, “I used to date his daughter, so it was a running joke. He always used to try to make me play for England, but I wasn’t having any of it.”
Who is Alicia Scholes?
The 22-year-old daughter of the Manchester United legend has an impressive social media presence, with over 46,000 followers on Twitter and an additional 110,000 on Instagram.
Her father, a true icon in modern football, made an astounding 718 appearances for Manchester United, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greats.
Alicia is now on a path to follow in her father’s footsteps, as she recently completed a transfer to the London netball team, London Pulse. Her ambitions extend to representing England on the national stage, a testament to her dedication to the sport.
Before her stint with London Pulse, Scholes had been a part of the Vitality Roses team, showcasing her talent and commitment to netball.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”