Brooks Koepka joins England stars for surprise golf session at World Cup camp

Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has been helping England's World Cup squad unwind in Florida after joining several players for rounds of golf during their training camp in West Palm Beach.

The former world number one reportedly last week spent time on the fairways with members of Thomas Tuchel's squad, who are staying at a luxury resort featuring its own golf facilities as they prepare for the World Cup. 

Among those reported to have teed it up alongside Koepka were captain Harry Kane, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, defender John Stones, training goalkeeper Jason Steele and Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.

Golf has long been a popular pastime within the England camp. Kane plays off a handicap of scratch, while Pickford and Declan Rice are also known to be keen golfers. Even Tuchel regularly spends time on the course away from football, often playing at Foxhills in Surrey.

Anderson revealed that Koepka's appearance came as a surprise bonus during one of the group's rounds.

"We had a plus one — we had Koepka join us and it was amazing," Anderson told the FA's social media channels.

"I think Harry sorted it. He must know him. It was brilliant. He was so good and definitely put me to shame. I was nervous standing on the tee, but I did alright."

Koepka, reportedly a keen Manchester United fan, lives in Jupiter, Florida, a golfing hotspot that is also home to several leading professionals, including grand slam champion and fellow Manchester United fan Rory McIlroy.

Shane Lowry, who also regularly plays golf with both Koepka and McIlroy in Jupiter, is also a United fan. 

Koepka has never hidden his affection for English football supporters. 

Ahead of the Euro 2024 final against Spain, he generated headlines after appearing at an event wearing a retro England shirt, much to the amusement of fans and the frustration of Spanish stars Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia.

England's preparations under Tuchel have so far adopted a relaxed feel, with players given downtime during the early stages of the camp before attention turns fully to football when the squad relocates to its tournament base in Kansas City.

Koepka was able to spend time with the England players after taking a week away from competition. 

The 36-year-old returns to action at this week's RBC Canadian Open before turning his focus to next week's U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. 

The American has lifted the U.S. Open trophy twice during his career, winning at Erin Hills in 2017 before successfully defending the title at Shinnecock Hills in 2018.

While victory has eluded him so far this season, Koepka's long game has remained a strength. 

His tee-to-green numbers have been consistently solid, though inconsistency on the greens has prevented him from converting strong performances into wins. 

Reports suggest he has spent significant time working on his putting in recent months as he looks to add to his major tally.

And maybe some added insight on the greens from Kane.