Montel McKenzie, a non-league footballer and fiance to Swiss international Alisha Lehmann, was recently sent off during a match for his new club, AFC Whyteleafe. The incident occurred in an Isthmian Premier League fixture against Burgess Hill, which AFC Whyteleafe lost 3-0. McKenzie received a second yellow card late in the game for disputing a decision with the referee.
Match Incident and Online Reaction
The dismissal happened in front of an attendance of 729 spectators. Following the match, the social media team for Burgess Hill posted a comment on their club account regarding McKenzie’s red card. The post, which gained significant online attention, referred to McKenzie as a “Love Island reject” and stated he was sent off for remarks made to the official. This particular tweet reportedly garnered over 1.1 million views and 17,000 likes. Online commenters also engaged with the post, with one user humorously suggesting the referee “pulled him for a chat.”
The match itself was not without unusual occurrences, as play was temporarily suspended due to a goose entering the pitch.
Relationship and Recent Activities
In the wake of the match and the subsequent online commentary, McKenzie and Lehmann were observed spending time together. They took a trip to Brighton, where they were photographed in a lift and later on a beach. Lehmann, a prominent figure in women’s football with a substantial social media following, was pictured by McKenzie in the sea wearing a bikini.
McKenzie, a 28-year-old full-back, recently joined AFC Whyteleafe. His career has seen him celebrate promotion with Folkestone Invicta in the previous season. Lehmann, often referred to as ‘the world’s sexiest footballer,’ has also been active, returning to play in England and receiving accolades at Leicester City’s end-of-season awards.
Relationship Timeline
Lehmann and McKenzie’s relationship became public approximately seven months prior to this incident, after meeting through the Baller League. McKenzie proposed to Lehmann, presenting her with an engagement ring. The couple has been spending time together during the off-season, including a recent holiday in Lehmann’s native Switzerland. During their time in Switzerland, they participated in a local activity known as ‘Aare Bootle’ on the Aare River.
Looking Ahead
Despite the recent setback on the pitch and the public commentary, both McKenzie and Lehmann appear to be focusing on their relationship and preparing for the upcoming football seasons. McKenzie’s move to AFC Whyteleafe marks a new chapter in his non-league career, while Lehmann continues to be a high-profile figure in the sport.
