Andros Townsend has caused a stir on social media after filming himself eating an unusual meal inside a World Cup stadium. The former England winger has joined ITV‘s coverage of the tournament, primarily working as a co-commentator. He last played in the Premier League two years ago, turning out for Luton Town as they were relegated back to the Championship.

Townsend, who currently plays in Thailand, regularly shares health and fitness advice on his social media channels. He previously revealed his diet plan while he was in Mexico, which included six hard-boiled eggs, six cans of sardines and a steak with a bone broth. Over the weekend, the 34-year-old turned it up a notch by posting a video of himself eating raw beef out of a glass box.

Posting on TikTok, the veteran forward shared a clip of his unusual lunch, which consisted of raw meat chunks and smashed avocado. He captioned the post: “Never let your circumstances dictate your health.”

Townsend was shown eating the bizarre meal in the commentary box of a World Cup stadium, in full view of the supporters around him in the stands.

Many fans on social media were left baffled, with @_belikeleo posting on X (formerly Twitter): “Footballers really do live in a completely different universe from the rest of us. Raw beef out of Tupperware is elite side quest behaviour.”

@sandra_dxxx said: “Can someone alert the authorities to take him away,” while @Tristorm3 added: “This is absolute madness btw. If anyone is currently doing this, you’re mad too.”

@JailTheEnglish wrote: “He comes across quite normal on commentary, it’s remarkable.” @fer62229, meanwhile, simply said: “He’s gone mad.”

Others were quick to defend Townsend’s unusual dietary choices, with @Yaaaz87000 firing back: “Kinda funny that you’re shocked about this but not when you see someone eating McDonald’s or other processed foods.”

@LP1886 added: “I mean eating raw beef has been around for as long as you, I or anyone. If it’s raw chicken then sure but nothing wrong with raw beef.”

@WillH767929 said: “If you’ve ever wondered how top level athletes perform how they do, this is why. I wouldn’t judge if you eat sandwiches and crisps daily.”

@Masoon006 wrote: “Really have no idea why people care what this guy does, looks extremely healthy anyway.”

Townsend shared the video ahead of Germany’s comeback victory over Ivory Coast, which saw Denis Undav score two second-half goals including a stoppage-time winner.