Royal of the Rovers: And Wills even has the shorts to play for England

With his grandfather in hospital, perhaps he was looking for a way to take his mind off his worries.

The Duke of Cambridge took part in an 11-a-side football game on Christmas Eve after he had travelled to the Queen’s Estate in Sandringham.

He appeared to have forgotten to remove his watch before taking to the pitch – but if the stress of the previous day was making him absent-minded, it didn’t affect his performance.

Princely pass: William shows off his football skills in the village of Castle Rising during his Christmas visit to the Queen's Estate in Sandringham

Kicking for the Crown: The 29-year-old played with villagers and staff from Lord Greville Howard's land in an 11-a-side match

Revolt! But William's rivals were defeated as Castle Rising FC won 4-2

Monarch and his mates: The Prince join in the celebrations after an energetic game