Picture this: you’ve trained hard, logged miles, and got your game face on—only to learn nothing will go as expected.
That’s exactly what happened to Sam Thompson.
In Friday’s episode of This Morning, the 32-year-old revealed he’s had to pull out of the big Soccer Aid match this Sunday (June 15) after an awkward training moment with Louis Tomlinson—and a string of injuries following his recent 260‑mile Soccer Aid challenge.
From Player to Coach—A Role Shift
Sam’s calf injury just wouldn’t let go. He explained to host Alison Hammond, “I’m still very sore, still got the torn calf.”
Though he can kick a ball from a standing start, competitive play is out of reach.
Instead of running around on the pitch, he’ll now contribute from the sidelines as part of the management team—standing beside the likes of Vicky McClure, Tyson Fury, and Harry Redknapp.
“I get to go on the dark side with Tyson Fury,” Sam joked.
A Bittersweet Training Session
Training took a tense turn when Sam and his ex-girlfriend Zara McDermott’s new beau, Louis Tomlinson, happened to end up side by side.
Both tried to avoid eye contact, though Sam flashed a smile and even “showboated” a little—an interaction that caught the eye of body-language expert Judi James.
What the Body Language Tells Us
Judi observed that both men used “avoidance” tactics, but it actually drew extra attention.
She said Sam came across as upbeat and confident—“anything but a loser in love”—while Louis kept things low-key and observant.
When the two did share a glance and a brief smile, Sam seemed active and engaging, while Louis appeared calm and unbothered.
No Hard Feelings, Really
According to sources, Sam holds no grudges toward Louis.
The split from Zara was tough, but Sam isn’t wallowing.
He’s thrown himself into work and new projects, and is genuinely supportive of Zara’s new relationship.
As one insider said, “Sam has no hard feelings towards Louis… as far as he’s concerned, Louis is Zara’s new man.”
Love Life Updates Off‑Pitch
Meanwhile, Sam is finding love again with 25‑year‑old Love Island All‑Star Samie Eilshi.
They’ve been spotted on affectionate evenings out—though she couldn’t join him for the 260‑mile challenge.
Still, those dating rumors were quickly denied: a source confirmed their relationship is going strong and they cherish their time off together.
What’s Ahead: Match Day on Sunday
Though Sam won’t be playing, he’ll still be right in the action as part of the coaching team at Old Trafford this Sunday (15 June).
The charity match airs live on ITV1 and ITVX, with football legends like Wayne Rooney managing, and stars like Tyson Fury, Vicky McClure, Paddy McGuinness, Tom Grennan, Jill Scott, and Gorka Marquez on the pitch.