It's claimed England stars Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard called off the A:3K event over fears of a backlash from their World Cup disaster.
The Daily Mail says England's woeful World Cup performance has led to a multi-million pounds skills extravaganza featuring Manchester United striker Rooney and Liverpool captain Gerrard being ditched.
The A:3K event, which was due to take place at London's O2 Arena a week after the World Cup Final on July 17, is now being postponed until next summer.
England captain Gerrard and striker Rooney were behind the shock decision because they felt it was inappropriate to be taking part in such an event following the debacle in South Africa.
Terry Byrne, A:3K director, said: "Both Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney have made it clear they believe it would be inappropriate for them to participate in A:3K at this time.
"We fully understand and respect both players' decisions. We could have replaced them with two other players but feel the players involved are six of the best in the world - and that is what we promised we would deliver."
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