Comedian tries to gatecrash

England almost had a 24-man squad departing for the World Cup.

As the country’s footballers prepared to board a flight to Miami yesterday for two pre-World Cup friendlies ahead of the tournament in Brazil, a familiar — if non-sporting — face mingled among the 23 players.

It was British comedian Simon Brodkin who wore an identical gray suit to the players and also brandished a passport. After appearing to be spotted first by captain Steven Gerrard, members of security and local police intervened. Brodkin was spoken to by a police officer before leaving the area.

In April last year Brodkin received a six-month conditional caution after warming up with the Manchester City team before a match.