74% say they still enjoy the big moments – even if they don’t fully understand what’s going on
Despite the nation’s love of football, many of us are just along for the ride – with 60% admitting they’re fair-weather fans, and 48% confessing they feel “out of their depth” when football chat kicks off. New research by Asda reveals that 28% don’t feel confident joining in the conversation, while 46% worry about saying the wrong thing in front of more knowledgeable fans.
74% say they still enjoy the big moments – even if they don’t fully understand what’s going on. And when it comes to keeping up appearances, many are resorting to a bit of blagging, with 15% pretending they know the rules when they don’t, and 14% confessing to googling things mid-conversation.
This summer Asda has signed up former England star Chris Kamara and former Scotland striker Kris Boyd to help teach fans the basics. Chris and Kris decode the rules, phrases, and match-day moments that leave fans most stumped – from offside to player positions – so shoppers can hold their own when the conversation turns to football.
Chris Kamara said: “Football is for everyone. Whether you’ve watched it your whole life or you only tune in when the big tournaments come around. We’ve all got to start somewhere, and if a few simple tips help people feel more confident joining in the chat, then unbelievable Jeff, that’s what it’s all about.”
Kris Boyd added: “There’s nothing wrong with being a fair-weather fan. Big tournaments bring everyone together, and you don’t need to know every formation or every rule to enjoy it. If we can help people understand the basics, have a laugh and feel part of the conversation, then we’ve done our job.”
Asda is also bringing the campaign to life in stores, with colleagues wearing badges reading Football Fanatic or Fair-Weather Fan – signalling they’re up for a chat about the match, and whether they know their wingers from their false nines.
Kamara and Boyd’s Asda match fit video series will be available across Asda’s social channels, helping fans brush up on the basics ahead of the tournament.
