This actually happened.
Northern Ireland’s players and fans are determined to enjoy Euro 2016, the country’s first appearance at a major tournament in 30 years.
It appears the country’s media are also making the most of their stay in France and, ahead of Tuesday’s game against Germany in Paris, one Northern Irish journalist asked defender Mats Hummels the question that is on everyone’s mind ahead of the crucial tie.
According to the London Times‘ journalist Tony Barrett, Hummels was asked if his defence is terrified, because Will Grigg is on fire.
Mats Hummels has just been asked if his defence is terrified because Will Grigg is on fire. Seriously.
— Tony Barrett (@TonyBarrett) June 20, 2016
The Northern Ireland striker has yet to see a minute of action at the tournament, but has gained cult status amongst fans due the song coined in his honour – a re-working of the 1996 dance song ‘Freed from Desire’ by Gala.
Hummels unfortunately didn’t reply by singing: “nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah nah”, and declined to sing the song when asked, claiming he’s the worst singer in the German squad.
Hummels has now been asked to sing the Will Grigg song: "I'm the worst singer in the squad so maybe I shouldn't do that."
— Tony Barrett (@TonyBarrett) June 20, 2016
However, Hummels did reveal that he’s a fan of the Will Grigg song and of the player himself. Mats was evidently a keen observer of Wigan Athletic’s rise from League One last season.
Mats Hummels on Will Grigg: "I like this song. I am already a great fan of his." #GER #NIR #WillGriggOnFire #EURO2016 @OmnisportNews
— Dom Farrell (@DomFarrell1986) June 20, 2016
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