Former Australia international Craig Foster awkwardly hugging his young daughter standing in front of him before a game against a Liverpool ‘legends’ side in Sydney yesterday has caused a social media storm.

Despite participating in a match featuring big names such as Steven Gerrard, Ian Rush and John Aldridge, Foster has found himself to be the biggest talking point of the afternoon.

After the moment was captured by the television cameras panning along the line-up prior to kick-off, the 46-year-old midfielder, who had spells with Portsmouth and Crystal Palace, was forced to make a statement on Twitter:

Thanks to all the 40,000 fans that turned out tonight for Legends game. To be young again. No muscle left intact but immensely enjoyable

— Craig Foster (@Craig_Foster) January 7, 2016

Was very special for all the players to have our children share tonight's experience as mascots. My beautiful 8 yo daughter. Unforgettable

— Craig Foster (@Craig_Foster) January 7, 2016

Shame my 16 yo girl and 18yo son couldn't be there as well. I certainly would have hugged them very close too. Special for a father

— Craig Foster (@Craig_Foster) January 7, 2016