Have you ever dreamt of following in the footsteps of your EFL heroes, but alongside your grassroots teammates?
If so, you’re in luck as Jameson and the EFL are again offering one amateur team a once-in-a-lifetime matchday experience. Following its debut last season, the Jameson x EFL Ultimate Matchday has returned, with former EFL midfielder Steve Sidwell set to lead the line once more having laced up his boots to play for the competition’s inaugural winners, Mercia United, in November 2025.
However, this time, Steve has brought Mick McCarthy – a man who famously tried (and failed) to sign him during his playing career – along for the ride, with the former Wolves, Ipswich Town and Republic of Ireland boss returning to the dugout for one game only.
What’s more, Sky Sports – the home of EFL football – will have presenter David Prutton on hand, flanked by his fellow former players-turned-pundits Jobi McAnuff and Luke Chambers, to provide live reaction to all the key moments from the match and speak with the standout performers on the day.
The winning team will be decked out in in brand-new PUMA kits, while their pitch will be given a makeover with Jameson branding across corner flags, ball plinths and interview boards, with EFL match officials provided for a truly authentic matchday experience.
And to top it all off, you will receive access to your local EFL club’s training ground to experience what the pros do on a daily basis, plus a year’s supply of Jameson Ginger & Lime cans for the squad.
Speaking ahead of his return to the Jameson x EFL Ultimate Matchday pitch, Sidwell said: “I absolutely loved playing alongside the Mercia United lads last year, but I’ve always hated losing – so of course, I had to come back again to make amends, and right those wrongs!
“Bringing Mick on board too, I’m hoping that he can work his magic to make sure we get the win this time around – and I can’t wait to get the opportunity to finally play for him, only 15 years later!”
Alison Perrottet, Brand Director for Jameson UK, added: “At Jameson, we’re passionate about bringing people together and few things do that better than football.
“While the professional game often takes the headlines, it’s the grassroots clubs, volunteer coaches, teammates and supporters who are the lifeblood of the sport in communities across the UK. Through our partnership with the EFL, we’re proud to celebrate local football communities and give one deserving team the chance to live a matchday like the pros, with expert training, EFL legends, new kits, professional officials and their home pitch transformed for the occasion.
“The response to last year’s competition showed just how much these experiences matter and we can’t wait to see which team steps onto the pitch for the Jameson x EFL Ultimate Matchday this season.”
In addition to the main event, two runner-up teams will also be gifted brand new PUMA strips, replica EFL match balls and Jameson Ginger & Lime cans, with the first ten teams who enter also winning two cases of Jameson cans to enjoy. The Ultimate Matchday Experience is part of Jameson’s wider partnership with the EFL, and echoes their commitment to supporting local communities, using the amateur game as a platform for bringing football fans and players together.
The competition is now open with teams needing to head to the Jameson website here, and submit their details. The winners will be announced on Monday, November 9 with the successful club required to be available across Saturday, December 5 and Sunday, December 6. There is no limit on the number of entries per club, so be sure to spread the word with your teammates and increase your chances of winning this money-can’t-buy experience.
