The radio star, who is also the frontman for punk band, the Salford Jets, said it was “really surreal” to be selected for his country after playing the beautiful game for 60 years.

“To get the call-up and to say I’m going to be an England international at 76 years of age is just wonderful,” he said.

“My life is a bit like Benjamin Button.

“I didn’t start on the radio until my 30s, didn’t get a recording contract until I was 30, I had my youngest [child] when I was 53.

“So I’m doing all this stuff almost in reverse.”

The Salford-born broadcaster encouraged people to exercise, no matter their age.

He said he felt fit and strong, mentally and physically, after a game or training with a “load of endorphins swimming around”.

“You can’t buy that feeling,” he said.