GK1 - Spring 2010

Transcription

GK1 - Spring 2010

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE GOALKEEPING PROFESSION
SPRING 2010
Robert
PENALTY KIN
G
World Cup Preview
Robert Green, England
Brad Guzan, USA
Mark Paston, New Zealand
Kid Gloves
The stars of the future
On the Move
Summary of the latest GK transfers
Coaching Corner
Player recruitment with David Coles
Also featuring:
Craig Gordon
Mike Pollitt
Neil Alexander
Matt Glennon
Fraser Digby
Equipment
All the latest goalkeeping products
Business Pages
Key developments affecting the professional ‘keeper
GK1 - FINAL (4).indd 1
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Welcome to
The magazine exclusively for the professional goalkeeping community.
stand out
Editor’s note
Andy Evans / Editor-in-Chief of GK1 and Director of World In Motion ltd
from the crowd
goalkeeper, with coaching features,
With the greatest footballing show on
equipment updates, legal and financial
earth a matter of months away we speak
issues affecting the professional player, a
to Brad Guzan and Robert Green about the
summary of the key transfers and features
potentially decisive art of saving penalties,
covering the uniqueness of the goalkeeper
and hear the remarkable story of how one
to a football team. We focus not only on the
penalty save, by former Bradford City stopper
stars of today such as Robert Green and
Mark Paston, secured the All Whites of New
Craig Gordon, but look to the emerging
Zealand a historic place in South Africa.
talent (see ‘kid gloves’), the lower leagues
is a magazine for the goalkeeping
and equally to life once the gloves are hung
profession. We actively encourage your
up (featuring Fraser Digby).
contribution - please feel free to contact
In a position like no other on the pitch,
focuses on those characteristics
us with your suggestions as to how we can
improve our first issue.
unique to a modern goalkeeper - Mike Pollitt
is delighted to support and promote
With the endorsement of the leading
and Neil Alexander speak candidly about life
the great work carried out by our chosen
players, key brands, glove and equipment
on the bench awaiting a chance to play, Matt
charities: Sparks, Help for Heroes, CHILDREN
suppliers, coaches and managers alike
Glennon gives an insight into the hopes and
with LUEKAEMIA and Everyman.
we are proud to deliver the first issue of
fears of a ‘keeper whose contract is running
a magazine dedicated entirely to the art
out, whilst Portsmouth goalkeeper coach
Motion ltd, a leading global management
of goalkeeping.
David Coles provides a fascinating insight
company and the UK’S foremost agency for
into the art of recruiting goalkeepers.
professional goalkeepers.
covers the key
elements required of a professional
Magazine is published by World in
CONTENTS
backpage images are the UK's fastest
growing editorial and commercial
sports photography company.
Our strength is in football imagery but we work
with specialists in other sports and have a team of
photographers around the country to service your
editorial, PR and commercial needs – both
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If you need flexibility and a friendly, efficient
and effective service please get in touch:
England’s number one?
Robert Green - penalty king
World Cup hopeful
Mark Paston - Kiwi Hero
American dream
Brad Guzan - Villa’s American star
On the move
Transfer news
Business pages
Key developments affecting the
professional ‘keeper
London, W6 9SJ
Joanna Adams, Head of Sales & Marketing:
jadams@backpageimages.com
Tel: +(44) 208 741 6060
info@gk1.co.uk
www.gk1.co.uk
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12
14
Back with the first team
Craig Gordon on injury
rehabilitation
Essential equipment
The latest goalkeeping
products
kid gloves
The stars of the future
Scotland’s Euro dreams
Featuring Neil Alexander
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20
22
24
Coaching corner
David Coles on recruitment
View from the bench
Mike Pollitt gives his view
Charity news
Sparks, Help for Heroes,
CHILDREN with LEUKAEMIA
and Everyman
Outside the box
Post career with Fraser Digby
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31
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“We at Uhlsport think the publication of GK1 is long overdue. Goalkeepers are
a union amongst themselves and a publication catering for their needs and
requirements will be a fresh addition to the team bus
and the Chairmans desk. We look forward to being
involved in the future.”
Publisher: World In Motion ltd
Editor-in-Chief: Andy Evans
Deputy Editor: Jason Brightman
Commercial Editor: James Clayton
Features Editor: Rob Dakin
Design: Tim Alexander
www.backpageimages.com
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GK1, Chancery House, 1 Lochaline Street,
Javier Garcia, MD: 07887 794393
javier@backpageimages.com
General enquiries: info@backpageimages.com
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“The goalkeepers community is a tight nit one and those looking from the
outside think we’re mad. To have a magazine which caters specifically for
our needs, thoughts and experiences is brilliant and something which will
become well read and received throughout football.” Richard Lee / Watford FC
Big Enough to Matter, Small Enough to Care
SPRING 2010
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WORLD CUP PREVIEW WORLD CUP PREVIEW WORLD CUP PREVIEW WORLD CUP PREVIEW WORLD CUP PREVIEW WORLD CUP PREVIEW
T
o date two World Cup finals
to put the taker off, others stand still. If you
have been decided by
can get in the takers head beforehand you
game affect your decision when facing a pen?
penalties; in 1994 (Brazil
might have a better chance.
RG: Maybe. A great deal of it is
v Italy) and 2006 (Italy v
France).The Republic of Ireland famously
: Do things that have happened in the
psychological. Players start to try more tricks
: Do you watch the penalty takers eyes?
and get more confident when they are 4-0
beat Romania in the quarter finals on
RG: No! Too late! If you do that they will be
up than 1-0 down, so this can affect how
penalties in 1990, the same year England
off celebrating before they are close enough
they take their kick. Sometimes you can
lost to Germany in that memorable semi-
to see!
think about it too much, however there are
final shootout that left Chris Waddle and
Stuart Pearce as the penalty fall-guys.
a number of factors involved.
: Why do you think you have the
England fans will be hoping they do not
best record for an English goalkeeper and
take any match to penalties in South
penalties?
advantage in taking pens as they know
Africa as they have never won a World
RG: Because there aren’t that many English
what the opposite number is looking for?
Cup Finals penalty shoot out, having lost
goalkeepers! We also concede a lot of
RG: Yeah, I don’t see why not. I have
all 3 they have been involved in and only
penalties, so I have to save some of them!
obviously never taken one in a game,
having won one in major competitions
In all seriousness, it is hard for me to say as I
however I would be confident enough if
(Euro 1996 v Spain at Wembley). With
don’t know what the other guys are doing in
asked. As a keeper you know where it is
focus on this facet of the game under
terms of saving them to be honest. It is quite
difficult to save and you know if you hit it
more scrutiny [than usual] in a World Cup
a personal thing and some keepers may
hard enough it is difficult to stop. A high
year GK1 speaks with Rob Green to get
have a theory on where a taker is going to
penalty is hard to stop as a keeper doesn’t
his thoughts on the spot kick.
place the ball and others don’t.
dive up. Recently against Hull, even though
: Do you think goalkeepers have an
I went the right way for a Bullard penalty it
: How often do you practice penalties
: Who is the best goalkeeper in the
in training?
game at facing penalties?
RG: Some of the players like to practice
RG: Pepe Reina has a good history from
before training. It really depends on the
what I can remember.
When it comes to the dreaded penalty shoot out, who would you want
between the sticks? When reviewing the stats over the last five years
GK1 discovers Rob Green has the best record of any English keeper
with a save rate of over 30%. With the World Cup fast approaching
penalties are in everyone’s minds as history states that some of the
biggest games are decided by the cruel, yet entertaining, spot kick.
RG: Yes! I would happily take a pen whenever
: Do you think penalty shoot outs will
[Interestingly, Arsene Wenger stated on the
play an important part of the World Cup?
eve of Arsenal’s Champions League tie with
RG: Yes. If you look at the major
Porto in March that his players would NOT
tournaments and the number of semi’s and
practise penalties the day prior to a game in
finals that have been decided on penalties,
case they missed, creating a negative vibe.]
you would have to say yes.
: Do you take time to study different
strikers and their penalty taking habits?
RG: Yes, before every game. We study
their penalties from previous games, their
actions, where they start their run up from,
what they do in their run up, the differences
: Would you take a pen in the World
Cup final if required?
games we have coming up. I would say
we practice them weekly on the whole.
went in the roof of the net, I had no chance!
I am called into action, for club or country.
Ed: Robert was selected by Fabio Capello to start for
England against Egypt on 3rd March and in a poll
conducted by the Sun newspaper thereafter received
the public support to be number 1 at the World Cup
Finals with 33% of the votes cast.
Chris Kirkland
Faced 13
Saved 2
Percent 15.4%
Ben Foster
Faced 8
Saved 1
Percent 12.5%
when they take penalties one way and the
David James
Faced 25
Saved 5
Percent 20%
other. We replay the same clips over and
over again trying to pick up any small detail
probably for 15 minutes before every game.
: Do you have any penalty saving
backpage images
secrets?
Robert Green
Faced 22
Saved 7
Percent 31.8%
Paul Robinson
Faced 16
Saved 1
Percent 6.25%
RG: Yes but I don’t want to give them
away. Trying to dive the right way is clearly
number one! Not really other than to do
your homework. Some people like to try
SPRING 2010
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World Cup
Hopeful
the right”.
Whilst nothing is guaranteed, his penalty
Some 40 minutes later, cue
heroics, along with the continuing ban for
pandemonium and tears in equal measure.
Glen Moss, makes Mark favourite to remain
The All Whites were destined for South
custodian when the All Whites take on
Africa and this typically modest Kiwi was
Slovakia, Italy and Paraguay when Group F
guaranteed a free Steinlager in every bar in
gets underway on June 15 in Rustenburg.
his home town of Napier.
Broken Dream
But no sooner had the cheers died down,
when a week later Mark was on crutches
- his dream of appearing in the greatest
football show on earth hanging on the word
of his surgeon.
Etched alongside the names of Dan Carter and Sir Richard Hadlee
in New Zealand’s best-loved sporting heroes lies a new name:
Mark Paston. For when it comes to career-defining moments,
the Kiwi national keeper simply couldn’t have timed his better.
“I came for a cross in training, collided
with one of our boys and landed awkwardly.
I fractured the top of my tibia. Once I found
out my reaction was ‘will I miss South Africa’?
“My recovery’s been good and I’m well
on the way to full fitness.”
“My football career has been very up and
B
Back in November, in front of a
The circumstances leading to Mark’s
record 35,000 fans packed into
selection for his country makes this
Wellington’s Westpac stadium,
boyhood dream all the more amazing.
Paston provided a ‘Roy of the
side The Hurricanes.
The Play Off second leg focused the
country’s attention on football like never
before.
Red card
Rovers’ performance, including a famous
save from the penalty spot, sending the
A red card for dissent for first choice
down. I’m very aware of how important it is
to enjoy the highs, as the lows can be very
drawn out.”
“We’re going to the World Cup with
nothing to lose. If you knew the result before
Guessed Right
the game, there’d be no reason to play.
‘All Whites’ to the World Cup finals for the
keeper Glen Moss, led to a 4-match ban
Led by Blackburn Rovers skipper Ryan
first time in 28 years.
being imposed by FIFA. It was expected an
Nelson, the ‘All Whites’ went one-nil up
Cup, no doubt. It’s just a matter of when.
appeal would see that punishment halved.
before half time, care of a Rory Fallon
We’ll be doing our very best to make sure
However an administrative error followed
header. Then on 51 minutes Phoenix
we’re involved in one or two.”
by the Christmas holidays meant NZF (New
teammate Tony Lochhead gave away the
Zealand Football) missed its chance to
penalty. The ref points to the spot and up
Packing Up
appeal. Up steps Mark, from the bench, to
steps Sayed Mohamed Adnan.
However the 33-year old keeper remembers
carry the hopes of the nation through two
“I was a bit annoyed about the Bahrain
how close he came to missing out on the
countrymen did in ‘82 when they lost all
World Cup play-offs, home and away to
players’ celebrating before the spot kick”
chance to perform on the world stage, when
three matches against Brazil (4-0), USSR (3-0)
Bahrain.
said Mark.
just three years ago he considered hanging
and Scotland (5-2).
“People expected us to get a bit of a
backpage images
backpage images
With rehabilitation now in full swing,
penalty takers and who shoots where, but
“I came over to the UK, played for
where the boys in front of me were just
to be honest I didn’t pay much attention.
Bradford City, Walsall and St Johnstone.
Africa. His hands are full at home as well
magnificent. After that, the media and
Pressure makes people do strange things.
I struggled with injuries and had three
following the arrival of son Jack, six months
people on the streets went football crazy.
Guys who would score 99 times out of 100
operations in as many years and when no
ago. “My wife says she’s looking after two
on the training pitch can easily buckle under
one came in for me after I’d finished at St
babies at the moment,” he says.
We used to have three blokes and a dog.
the pressure. So I’m a strong believer in
Johnstone I thought that was it.
Suddenly there was media everywhere.
following my instincts.”
Interest in us has snowballed and even the
SPRING 2010
up his gloves and finding a new career.
Few expect them to do better than their
thumping over there. But we drew nil-nil
“Our training sessions were mobbed.
6
“The management had run through their
“There’s going to be upsets at the World
“The bench were trying to get a message
Mark can once again dare to dream of South
He expects to be kept busy come June
“In 2006, I was dusting off the CV and
too. But if he needs a break from the physio
thinking what I should do next when a call
this week, he can always sit back and watch
rugby players, the fans and commentators
to me to dive to my right. Apparently our
came in from the now defunkt A-League
the playoff against Bahrain and the save
were all wishing us ‘Good Luck’. “
striker Shane Smeltz was pointing to my
team back in Auckland.
that’s rewritten the history books.
Indeed in Wellington, crowds for the
A-League football side Phoenix now dwarf
the attendances of the city’s Super 14 Rugby
right, but I was unaware of all of it.”
“I headed home and things have gone
You can see Mark’s heroics for yourself.
“I was just focused on the ball. And
really well for me since then,” said Mark, who
Visit: http://www.youtube.com/
thankfully I guessed correctly and dived to
now has 23 caps for his country to his name.
watch?v=0MP-Ue_lNqM
In brief
l I n the Internationals in early March, Joe Hart
was selected ahead of Ben Foster in the
England squad to face Egypt. Another keeper
with World Cup aspirations, Blackburn
Rovers’ Paul Robinson has suffered a setback
being ruled out for over a month with a calf
injury sustained against former club Spurs.
lN
orth of the border, Rangers’ Allan
McGregor was omitted from Craig Levein’s
first squad as Scotland manager (due to eye
injuries sustained in an incident in Glasgow
city centre) - with Craig Gordon, David
Marshall and McGregor’s Rangers teammate Neil Alexander the chosen keepers.
Gordon made some important saves to
ensure a clean sheet and a 1-0 victory over
the Czech Republic.
lD
arren Ward has left his post as
Peterborough United goalkeeper coach,
to take up a similar role under Darren
Ferguson at Preston North End. By way
of replacement the Posh signed former
Northampton and Lincoln City stopper
Barry Richardson to perform the coaching
duties at London Road.
l S imilarly, Ludek Miklosko has been
relieved of his duties at West Ham and has
been replaced by Kevin Hitchcock.
lM
otherwell goalkeeper John Ruddy (on
loan from Everton) and Swansea City’s
Dorus De Vries are both currently leading
the Soccer AM ‘Golden Glove’ competition.
l F lamboyant midfielder Robbie Savage
made a brief foray into the ‘goalkeeper’s
union’ with a cameo between the sticks for
Derby Cty at Reading. First-choice goalie
Stephen Bywater went off injured in the
13th minute, and his replacement Saul
Deeney was sent-off for a foul in the penalty
are in the 41st minute with Derby 2-1 down.
lN
ottingham Forest’s Lee Camp was voted
the highest ranking ‘keeper in the Football
League’s Championship Player of the Year
award, announced Sunday 14th March.
l J uventus and Italy keeper Gianluigi Buffon
went to extraordinary lengths to distance
himself from a tabloid article in Torino
Cronaca alleging that his Brazilian team
mate Amauri was involved in a relationship
with his girlfriend, model Alena Seredova.
Buffon, his girlfriend and Amauri tracked
down the reporter to a restaurant where
they confronted him and forced him to issue
a stuttering apology for the falsehoods
written...! “I’ve been called gay, a fascist,
I’ve read how my relationship is in tatters,
I’ve been called a loser, I can deal with all
that,” Buffon said. “But mess with my family
and we’ve got a problem . . .”
SPRING 2010
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22/04/2010 20:16:44
Like so many goalkeepers before him, Aston Villa’s Brad Guzan
is having to play a waiting game. Since arriving from the MLS
side Chivas USA in July 2008, Guzan has found first team chances
limited. While he’s played regularly in the cup competitions, fellow
countryman Brad Friedel remains first choice for premiership games.
Brad Guzan
American
Image by Neville Williams / courtesy of Aston Villa FC
DREAM
A
“
s a professional everyone
And if the call comes for their opening
wants to play, you want
basis means we have developed a really
group game – he’ll be up against England
to help your team be
good relationship on and off the field. “It’s
and a few familiar faces.
successful, that’s why
a great relationship and I’m lucky to have
“Any game you’re going to play at the
you play the game,” says Guzan. “But
somebody to help me understand the
World Cup is going to be a difficult game,
it’s pointless getting frustrated about
English game and what it takes to play year
so to be drawn against England in the first
not playing regularly, part of being a
after year at such a high level.”
game is going to be especially tricky, but
goalkeeper is to make sure you’re ready
when the call comes.”
The World Cup is now firmly on the
also very exciting. “When the draw was
horizon for Guzan. After helping the US to
made I was just arriving at Villa Park to get
qualify for South Africa he’s certain to make
on the team coach, the first person I saw
to wait for his chance, but he also sees
the squad, but once again he’ll be second
was Emile Heskey and straight away the
this period as an important time in his
choice keeper, this time behind Everton’s
banter was flying.”
development.
Tim Howard.
So the 25-year-old accepts he’ll have
“Being a relatively young goalkeeper it’s
Image by Neville Williams / courtesy of Aston Villa FC
“Working with Brad on a day-to-day
important for me to use this time while not
playing week in week out to better myself,”
reveals Guzan. “As a goalkeeper you may
only have to make a few saves a game so
a big part of goalkeeping is your mental
toughness.”
It could be some time before Guzan gets
It’s about being a
good team-mate
and being a guy
that is ready to
be called upon.
“As the back-up goalkeeper for the
‘Brad Junior’, as some of the Villa fans
have dubbed him, is just the latest in
a long line of goalkeepers from the US
who have made it in England. Is this just
a coincidence, or is there a reason why so
many do well over here? Guzan believes he
has part of the answer:
“I think it starts with the sports that
kids grow up playing in America. “Baseball,
his chance on a regular basis. Despite being
national team obviously you’re not going to
American Football, Basketball – they’re the
39, Brad Friedel remains as consistent as
be playing that much, so for me it’s about
3 main sports; they all involve hand-eye
ever; he recently set the premiership record
being a good team-mate and being a guy
coordination which is something that’s
for consecutive appearances.
that is ready to be called upon.”
obviously important for any goalkeeper.”
SPRING 2010
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22/04/2010 20:16:55
On the
move
his contract with Hull City FC on transfer
Brazilian was placed on the transfer list by
Notts Forest stopper Shane Redmond faced
deadline day and in time to secure his status
manager Gary Johnson and having failed
the long and daunting trip to Darlington
as a Free Agent.
to move looks set to see out the remainder
where relegation from the Football League
of his contract. This prompted the Robins
seems inevitable.
Wigan Athletic strengthened their
goalkeeping department in the light of
to bring in former Yeovil and Crewe stopper
Richard Kingson absence with Ghana at the
Steve Collis on a short term contract until
Scotland
African Cup of Nations, by recruiting Serbian
the end of the season, and to allow former
Onto the SPL, where in early march Celtic
goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovi from Sporting
Villa keeper Stephen Henderson to join
confirmed that they were in talks with Polish
Lisbon.
Aldershot on an initial month’s loan. With
international Artur Boruc to extend his
Paddy Kenny still suspended following his
contract at Parkhead.
failed drugs test, Sheffield United looked
to strengthen by bringing in Mihkel Aksalu
from FC Talinn of Estonia, and were forced
back into the marketplace to sign Steve
The January transfer window turned out to be
nothing more than a damp squib with the expected
late rush of transfers simply not materialising.
Simonsen from Stoke, when Blackburn
recalled Mark Bunn following Paul
Robinson’s calf injury.
Having stumbled into administration
Crystal Palace also agreed to extend
the loan of Daryl Flahavan, to Oldham
O
Athletic, whilst another club familiar with
verall spending was vastly
that David James would be leaving Fratton
Spurs move for Begovich whom had agreed
administration, Southampton FC, allowed
reduced, with Premiership
Park in an attempt to secure his plane ticket
terms and undertaken a medical with the
Michael Poke to remain at Torquay United.
clubs spent a total of
to South Africa for the World Cup, with
North London club!
£44.8 million during the
Stoke City appearing his likely destination.
In League 2, Frank Fielding is hoping he
James’ eagerness to depart Fratton
Daryl Flahavan / Image courtesy of Oldham Athletic FC
can contribute to his Rochdale side making
January period, less than 25% of the
Simultaneously, James’ Pompey team-
Park was fuelled by a contractual provision
£190.5 million spent in the previous
mate Asmir Begovic was the subject of an
that entitled him to a contract extension
On loan
basement division for the first time in 35
year’s winter transfer window. Over one
approach from Spurs. In an amazing and
upon the completion of a certain number
Departures on loan from Premiership clubs
years (the longest unbroken stint in League
quarter of this amount is attributed
acrimonious twist, Stoke and Pompey failed
of games, and which given Pompey’s well
included Fulham’s David Stockdale who
2 !)-before rejoining parent club Blackburn
to the sum that Manchester United
to agree the finer terms of the transaction
documented financial problems, could
joined Championship strugglers Plymouth
Rovers. Fellow promotion chasers AFC
have agreed to pay for Chris Smalling
to take James to the Britannia Stadium, but
potentially have left him unable to play
Argyle and Karl Ikeme who extended his
Bournemouth have rewarded keeper Shwan
of Fulham- a fee that could rise to £12
Tony Pulis was quick to find a replacement....
the final games of the season. As for Spurs,
loan from Wolves with Queens Park Rangers.
Jalal with a 2 year contract extension. Paul
signed for Hibernian on a two and a half
million. Factors including the global
nipping in with a £3.25 million bid to hijack
despite several late forays into the deadline
Similarly, Arsenal allowed Pole Wojciech
Peschisolido has returned to former club
year deal , which prompted the club to
day market, bids for Watford’s Scott Loach
Szczesny to remain with Brentford until the
Birmingham City to secure the services of
place Yves Ma-Kalambay, whose contract
recession, a weak pound against the
Asmir Begovic / Image courtesy of Stoke City FC
history by winning promotion from the
John Ruddy / Image courtesy of EvertonFC.com
Departing Parkhead, keeper Mark Brown
Euro and a lack of budget all contributed
and an approach for
end of the season, Man Utd’s Tom Heaton will
Artur Krysiak on loan for his Burton Albion
expires at the end of the season, on the
to one of the quietest trading periods
Glasgow Rangers’ Allan
hope to help struggling Wycombe Wanderers
side, whilst fellow midlanders Northampton
transfer list. Two departures on a short term
for some time. Whilst in general the UK
McGregor failed to
avoid relegation from League 1, whilst Spurs
Town attracted Jason Steele to the Sixfields
basis from Edinburgh saw Mark Ridgers join
slowly exits the recessionary period, the
materialise.
have aided Shrewsbury’s promotion push
stadium in a similar short term capacity from
East Fife on loan from Hearts and Thomas
from League 2 by offering the Shropshire
M’Boro. Passing in the opposite direction,
Flynn make the same move to Alloa from
fear that football may be entering into
Elsewhere in the
such a phase was not allayed by the slide
Premier League, newly
outfit the services of England under 20
into administration of Crystal Palace and
appointed Burnley
keeper David Button.
then Portsmouth FC.
manager, Brian Laws,
Hibernian.
Flying into the SPL from overseas,
In the Championship there was little
Dusan Pernis joined Dundee United on a
gave Nicky Weaver a
movement despite the media linking Lee
free transfer from MSK Zilina. Also in the
return to the top flight
Grant with a reunion with former manager
SPL, Everton’s on loan goalkeeper, John
following a successful
Brian Laws at Burnley and Keiren Westwood
Ruddy, saw his fine form rewarded with an
move’, the attention was primarily focused
spell in the SPL with
with a move to Sunderland. Swansea City
extension to his loan deal with Motherwell
upon beleaguered Premier League outfit
Dundee United.
however rewarded promising Wales Under
until the end of the season. Title chasing
Portsmouth FC, who during the window
Another keeper with
21 keeper David Cornell with a new 3 year
Rangers allowed George Ingliss to sign for
won a 7 day stay of execution from a
SPL experience, Tony
contract, whilst across the Severn Bridge
Hamilton Accies, whom also snapped up
winding-up order at the High Court. In the
Warner negotiated
the relationship between Bristol City and
Pompey peril
Amongst the goalkeepers ‘on the
early days of the window it appeared likely
10 SPRING 2010
an early release from
Adriano Basso was less harmonious. The
Brian Potter, whilst Jamie Barclay joined East
Shwan Jalal / Image courtesy of Mick Cunningham Photography
Stirling from SPL outfit Falkirk.
SPRING 2010 11
22/04/2010 20:17:23
Keeper seeks club for long-term love affair...
A
s the Premier League’s big hitters
sharpness and agility and making sure you
were terrific with me,” said Carlisle’s former
steal the front and back page
recover quickly in time for the next game.
Supporters’ Player of the Year.
headlines, it’s not all glitz and glamour,
But then, as now, the keepers stick together
WAGs and catwalks for the majority of
like a Band of Brothers.
pro footballers.
After 16 years earning a living between
the sticks, Bradford City’s Matt Glennon faces
the most daunting time of his professional
career. With almost 400 games under his
belt, he’s played in front of 60,000 at Celtic
Park, saved three penalties in one game and
even scored with a volley from the edge of
the box. But come this July, like some 600
professional players across the UK, Matt will
be out of contract and looking for a new club.
Family Support
“Of course it’s a worrying time. I’ve got a
family to look after. But you simply have to
Matt Glennon
Position: Goalkeeper
Date of birth: 08/10/78 (31)
Height: 1.87m
Nationality: English
Personal profile:
Drives: 3 Series BMW
In CD Player: James Blunt
Fave Holiday: Cyprus
Must remember to pack: Wife and kids
Loves: Shoes
Star Sign: Libra
Favourite present player: Wayne Rooney
Favourite former keeper: Peter Schmeichel
Fan as a schoolboy: Stockport County (ballboy)
knuckle down and back your own ability.
The last thing you can do is let it get to you.”
“I had three enjoyable seasons there,
and while there were lows, there were
some great highs,” adds the Stockportborn stopper, who was part of the side
who were relegated from the league in
2004 but bounced straight back up via the
Conference play-offs.
“It was fantastic to get straight back up
and reward the supporters, who remained
very loyal,” he said. “Cumbria is a real outpost
- I laugh when some players complain about
a three-hour coach journey to an away game.
For Carlisle, that’s a local derby! - but they still
took loads of fans away. I remember going
to Leigh RMI, whose average attendance was
around 600, and there were more than 2,000
Carlisle supporters there.”
Matt’s confidence in his own ability
“People say keepers are daft, but really,
means he’s convinced the days playing in
said the 31-year old GK who joined the
when outfield players do all that running
front of packed houses in major stadia are
Bantams half way through this season.
around, who are the daft ones? A couple of
not behind him.
“I’ve been in this situation once before
years ago, before I resigned form Huddersfield,
“People know what I can do for them. I’m
where I turned down a new contract at
I was being linked with the likes of Coventry
fitter, stronger and more agile than at any
Carlisle and ended up at Falkirk. Three
and Birmingham City,” said Matt, whose
time and I’m hopeful I’ll find another club
games later, we were away at Celtic
fondest memories are saved for the dedicated
before pre-season starts.“
and I was playing in front of 60,000. The
band of followers at Brunton Park.
atmosphere was incredible. So I’m aware
your fortunes can change very quickly.”
“I’ve enjoyed a good rapport with fans
wherever I’ve been but the fans at Carlisle
To see Matt’s goal for St Johnstone vrs
Ross County, go to: http://www.youtube.
com/watch?v=GhApt-ZMPOM
1997-2001 Bolton Wanderers
On The Bench
0 appearances
“I’ve been in the game for a long time now
2000 Bristol Rovers (loan)
and managed to pick up lots of friends and
1 appearance
contacts along the way.
DAVID ELLIS
Bespoke Jewellery
Hatton Garden Direct
Tel: 07932 796446
Email: bigdellis@gmail.com
2000-2001 Carlisle United (loan)
“I’m really keen to avoid sitting on the
29 appearances
bench. Others can do it, but I’m afraid I’m
2001-2002 Hull City
no good at it. It’s absolutely something I just
35 appearances
can’t do. On a couple of occasions, I’ve moved
2002-2005 Carlisle United
on from clubs because I’d rather be playing.
114 appearances
“I’m only 31 and I’m hopeful I’ve got my
2005 Falkirk
best years infront of me. I look after myself,
21 appearances
most pros eat and train very differently to
2005-2006 St. Johnstone
when I first got into the game.”
12 appearances
As a jeweller based in Hatton Garden for over 30 years, I offer a service where my clients can enjoy my passion for
fine jewellery and watches.
With my considerable buying and supplying experience, trade connections and reduced overheads, I am able to
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2006-2010 Huddersfield Town
Brothers In Arms
109 appearances
“Keeper sessions used to be very long and
2010 Bradford City
very physical. These days the emphasis is on
10 appearances
Matt Glennon / backpage images
As part of my very personal service I can supply your jewellery and watches and deliver them to suit your time
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Confidentiality, discretion and quality assured.
12 SPRING 2010
22/04/2010 20:17:31
BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS
The business pages
Transfer market in meltdown?
W
ith Premier League spending
of their turnover on player’s salaries and this
the issues a reasonable profile and I think
in January’s transfer market
system is still in place in the MLS in America,
even those who don’t approve of me would
down significantly from
in professional rugby in the UK and in many
probably concede that. Our Championship
£190.5 million in January 2009 to £44.8
other sports. The introduction of a salary cap
clubs in particular are not yet ready to
million in January 2010, and little major
along these lines has received widespread
commit but it’ll happen because what is
activity elsewhere in the Football League,
support in recent
does this beg the question that football is
months, with the
entering recessionary times?
likes of Wigan
Financial uncertainty exists for a
Chairman Dave
number of UK football clubs and the plight
Whelan, Michel
of Premier League Portsmouth FC and
Platini and Football
Championship Crystal Palace FC may well
League Chairman
be resulting in a new period of financial
Lord Mawhinney
prudence amongst clubs. The lack of
all speaking out in
spending in general in the January transfer
favour.
window would certainly seem to back this
Lord
Wages should not
exceed a certain
percentage of our
turnover. Anyone
who breaks
that should be
docked points.
up, as nearly ¼ of the total amount spent
Mawhinney, the
was attributable to the transfer of Chris
outgoing chairman of the Football League,
Smalling from Fulham FC to Manchester
believes a salary cap is inevitable among the
United FC.
league’s member clubs.
Salary caps
programme: “The business model of
The financial plight of clubs has been a
professional football in this country doesn’t
hot topic at governing body level, and
work, it’s broke and you see that reflected in
in January 2010 UEFA continued to raise
the administrations and
concerns about excessive spending pointing
out that nearly half of all European clubs are
all the rest of it.
“I have some clubs
for clubs that don’t play ball:
“I think it is time for the Premier League
NB Editor’s Note: I would be very surprised if
the leading clubs voted in favour of this as
Europe would make football throughout the
– perhaps the chairman Sir Dave Richards
a collective- having established the Premier
continent a much more level playing field.
– to think about how the clubs stop firing
League as the most successful and financially
the money out to the players and the
rewarding in the world, I suspect clubs will not
agents as fast as the chief executive Richard
wish to surrender competitive advantage when it
Scudamore can bring it in.
comes to luring the best players to sign for them.
“I am a fan of the American model,” he
told the News of the World.
“The European model cannot be
“The 20 clubs in the Premier League
Adopting a salary cap based on club revenue
going on presently
commercial parameters that allow
should make sure what has happened to
will also clearly favour the established clubs
is not sustainable in
competition, that allow revenue
Portsmouth can never happen again.
with huge stadia and flourishing commercial
the medium term.”
distribution, and that will allow talent to
continue to prosper.”
Out of
control
Sunderland Chairman Niall Quinn calls for a
Perhaps more
radical shake-up with hard-hitting penalties
Equally supportive of such a salary cap,
“What we should do is agree on a salary
operations, to the detriment of smaller clubs that
cap – wages should not exceed a certain
have the ambition to challenge, and therefore to
percentage of our turnover.
promoting competition.
“Anyone who breaks that should be
docked points.
Watch this space…
significantly,
and even more
surprisingly, the
Chairman of
mega-spending
Manchester City is also an advocate:
With a wage payout in excess of
says finance in football has spiralled out of
control.
Reflecting on a more controlled outlook in
America, where teams have a limit as to the
Sunderland Chairman Niall Quinn
the City chairman says such control in
sustained without new parameters,
£100million a year, Khaldoon Al Mubarak
He told the BBC’s Late Kick Off
amount of money they can spend on players,
Taxman investigates
image rights payments
O
have a serious financial impact on both Clubs
and Players. This includes the liability to pay
tax and national insurance plus interest as
well as penalties. Players should seek advice
from specialist lawyers dealing with both
ne structure certainly under
made to Players for their Image Rights are
the Tax and Sports Law issues. Any advice
attack by the Inland Revenue
actually a form of disguised remuneration and
received from lawyers is legally privileged, it
at present is the acquisition by
have allowed Players to escape paying over
is protected and cannot be accessed by the
clubs of image rights of their players. This
£100 million in tax. HMRC are arguing that
HMRC Investigators, unlike the advice received
has been common practice by elite clubs,
these payments are in reality for the players
by accountants and tax experts which does
particularly in the last decade to ensure
on field activities and not off field activities as
not have the same protection.’’
that they can exploit the image of the
they are purporting to be. HMRC are believed
players they employ to the maximum and to
to be actively investigating image rights
administration of Portsmouth FC, it is worth
ensure that those players do not enter into
deals of over 100 Premier League players.
pointing out that these image rights structures
NB In a case highlighted by the fall into
running at a loss every year and as many
in the Football League
commercial agreements that conflict with
By way of example, a recent prospectus into
set out above do not have the same protected
as 20% of clubs spending as much as 120%
who are paying up to
those that the clubs already have in place.
Manchester United’s financial and commercial
status as players salaries should a club fall
of their revenue per season. Of particular
85% of their income in
concern was the fact that as many as 1/3
wages.
of clubs are spending 70% or more of their
“I don’t care how
arrangements has reported that HMRC are
into administration. Sol Campbell for example
paid into a separate company set up for
investigating the club in relation to image
issued a writ against Portsmouth FC for unpaid
the player, which can also be incorporated
rights payments to several leading players
image rights monies and bonuses to the tune of
These image rights payments are typically
revenues on player salaries. With salaries at
great you are, you
outside of the UK, and which are therefore
and that HMRC are seeking repayment of
£1.7 million- a sum which is now under serious
such a high level it is perhaps no surprise
may be the best
subject to Corporation tax at a much lower
approximately £5.3 million for the period
threat given the clubs fall into administration.
that the January window did not deliver the
business entrepreneur
rate than the Income Tax and National
2001 to 2009, which they say relates to unpaid
Tina Hardwick
usual level of transfer activity.
the country has ever
Insurance which are paid on Players wages.
National Insurance contributions.
Solicitor
Moreover, concern at the proportion
of club revenue being swallowed up by
you cannot run a
player’s wages has led to increasing calls for
sustainable business
the introduction of salary caps into all levels
with that sort of
of professional football. Currently clubs in
model.
League 2 can only spend a maximum of 60%
14 SPRING 2010
Email: THardwick@pitmanssk.com
come up with, but
“I think I have given
Why do HMRC have
an issue with this
arrangement?
Inspectors from HMRC have launched the
investigation as they believe that payments
What can players do?
DD: + 44 (0) 20 7634 4626
Sports Lawyer Tina Hardwick of solicitors
Pitmans SK says: ‘’Due to the wide powers of
HMRC, which can stretch back as far as 6 years,
the consequences of these investigations can
SPRING 2010 15
22/04/2010 20:17:33
BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS
50%
tax rate?
How players can seek to
minimise the impact of the new
higher rate tax bracket coming
into force in April 2010
T
payment date for bonuses
eferring income so that it is received in a
2) d
later year when tax rates will hopefully be
lower – this has particular opportunities
for those players who remain non
domiciled in the UK and have substantial
offshore income or investments could
be structured so that tax deferral is
possible such as Investment Bonds with
drawdown facility.
Former Luton Town
goalkeeper preaches a
different type of saving
3) r educing taxable income such as
salary sacrifice schemes or structuring
investments with a capital return such as
zero rated preference shares
aying in such a way that remuneration
4) p
is subject to lower capital gains tax rates
or corporate tax rates such as use of share
F
ormer Luton Town goalkeeper
of planning to help prevent an exodus of
Scott Ward explains how he
players and to prevent clubs from having to
emerged from a football career
find even more capital to keep their current
into the world of tax planning:
with my Dad who spent time as a youngster
save on the huge outlay they currently
the use of split interest or freezer shares –
with QPR to my elder brother Lee being
face. This is a non aggressive futuristic type
This might even encourage a return to the
a trainee with Watford. Brother Darren
of planning that will change the face of
old days of player loyalty.
currently plays for Millwall FC and younger
football enabling players and football clubs
brother Elliott is currently with Coventry
to have a bright future.
Foreign transfer?
City FC.
loans as part payment of wages- The benefit
Aside waiting and hoping that the
introduction by the Government
being that such loans are treated as a
Conservative Party will be elected into
Career
of a new higher rate tax band of
benefit-in-kind by HMRC and are taxed at
Government this summer and will return
My Luton Town career was launched by
50%, applicable to individuals earning a
2.5%, thus resulting in a total tax liability of
to a higher rate of tax of 40%, one final
salary in excess of £150,000 per annum- a
42.5% as opposed to 50%.
figure which is significantly below the
This scheme could however
average salary level in the Championship,
dramatically backfire as
let alone the Premier League.
HMRC could potentially
introduce retrospective
legislation to block it and
However, the tax profession have been
recoup the unpaid tax.
careful to warn players of the risks should
£££
Planning for the future
With National Insurance rising alongside
the Tax rate it makes perfect sense to lessen
Scott Ward
making a perfect debut Vs Brentford FC.
the burden faced by everyone on both
solution to be considered
After one minute our goalkeeper was sent
Incentive. They look after players from the
fields via our unique structure. This enables
is a transfer to a foreign
off and in the process gave away a penalty.
beginning of their career to planning for
football clubs to pay less out while enabling
club in a jurisdiction
I came on and saved the resulting Lloyd
when they retire.
the individual whether they are a member
with a more favourable
Owusu penalty. The game ended
tax system. For example,
1 - 1. I then spent a total of over
foreign players competing
eight years with several clubs. After
in Spain’s top division for
spending pre-season with Coventry
up to 6 years are liable for
City and not receiving the contract I
a higher rate income tax
felt was deserved and with my body
of 25 %, whilst in France it
telling me to call it a day I decided
is 40%, in Italy 43% and in
to cut my career short and ventured
Germany 45%. Combined
into the arena that had always
the new 50% tax band. There are several
Minimize the
impact
ways in which wealthy individuals have
Andrew Davis of London-
historically mitigated high rates of income
based Accountancy firm
tax, such as sheltering pay from income tax
Davis Bonler summarises the key strategies
with a favourable sterling/Euro exchange
through property and other investments,
available to players:
rate an exodus to foreign climates may be
and commonly through investment into film
are essentially four different strategies to
an increasingly attractive proposition for
Investments
partnerships and other venture capital type
minimize the impact of the new 50% tax
British players.
I have always been interested in
investment schemes which allow investors
band, as follows:
to defer income tax and capital gains tax.
1) accelerating income so that it is received
their advisers assist them with ways to avoid
a concept to help individuals and clubs
option schemes such as those involving
his April 2010 sees the
Risk
crop of players. Therefore we have created
‘’I come from a footballing family starting
interested me: finances and tax.
This enables
football clubs
to pay less out
while enabling the
individual to
receive more.
investments and creating solutions for
of the playing or non playing staff
to receive more. It could potentially
lessen the football clubs outlay by
30% per annum depending on their
structure.
It will also enable the individuals
to plan for the future via investing
with money that would not have
usually been accessible. With
Montpelier’s vast experience and
my understanding of football as a
whole there is always a solution. This
is encapsulated in the Montpelier
Subsequently, I was approached by
vision of “ think smart-act smart “
Editor: There are many ways with careful
financial planning and tax solutions. I spent
Montpelier Tax consultants. They are one
before 06/04/10 - for example any
planning to mitigate the rise in tax rates but of
two years in London helping players with
of the biggest companies in their field
Scott Ward
announcement of the tax hike, another
bonuses due could be paid be paid before
course at all times players and clubs should be
their Tax planning during which time I
with over 52 offices in over 20 countries. I
Consultant for Montpelier Tax Consultants
more controversial scheme which was
06/04/10 and if cash flow is an issue the
aware of HM Revenue & Customs crackdowns
learnt an awful lot and gained some great
knew with tax rising to 50% from April 2010
Email: sward@montpeliergroup.com
under discussion concerns the potential
net bonus could be lent back and ‘repaid’
on such schemes and future changes that may
experience. I then helped my brother Darren
players, football clubs and professionals
Tel: +44 (0)1327 842 780
use by players and clubs of interest-free
in accordance with the clubs ‘normal’
reduce the effectiveness of such plans.
start up his financial company called New
alike would be in drastic need of some type
In the immediate aftermath of the
16 SPRING 2010
SPRING 2010 17
22/04/2010 20:17:34
I
“
t was a fracture to the ulna bone
backpage images
CRAIG GORDON
which is the outside of the two that
form your forearm,” says Gordon. “It
BACK
WITH
THE
FIRST
TEAM
was slightly displaced and they had
to operate to put the bone back together.
At the moment there’s a titanium plate on
the outside of the bone with 6 screws in
it, this will be taken out in the summer.”
For Gordon a spell on the sidelines is
nothing new, he spent three months out
with a knee injury last season. While he
could be forgiven for bemoaning his bad
luck, it isn’t something he dwells on. He said:
“I don’t really think about it, you just
which is an incredible stat, that many
and roundly disliked by the managers. Steve
get on with the rehab and try to come
combinations would cause problems for any
Bruce is one who has been particularly
back as quickly as possible. To start with
team,” he says. “To get all the players back we’ll
critical, and Gordon agrees. “Personally I
there wasn’t a great deal I could do, I was
have a better and stronger squad and hopefully
preferred it the old way,” he reveals. “You can
swimming and playing a bit of table tennis,
we can have a much better end to the season.”
end up not playing for 6 months because at
just things I could do to keep my fitness up.”
is going to play in front of you - you didn’t
Road to recovery
Stamford Bridge. “The training ground was
realise it was going to happen - the window
The recovery went well and he was ready
a very quiet place for a few days after that,
shuts and you can’t move for 6 months.
to return ahead of schedule, but playing
everybody was hurting, but then you start
“Decisions can get made too hastily and
competitive football again meant having to
me to wear something to protect it for at
least for the first year,” he says. “There was
nothing out there so my kit manufacturer,
Sells Goalkeeper Products, worked on a
couple of designs and eventually came
Decisions can get made
too hastily and both
clubs and players
can end up making
the wrong choice.
both clubs and players can end up making
the wrong choice. “Under the old system
you could spend time thinking things
through, looking at your options, it’s not
just the football side of things you’ve got to
consider, there’s your family too.”
Unfortunately for Gordon, Scotland
up with something that offered enough
to get on with it and realise you’re not as
has failed to qualify for another major
protection but wasn’t too big. It doesn’t
bad a team as the score suggests - it was
Championship, he’ll be a spectator again
restrict the movement and is quite
just one of those games.”
at this summer’s World Cup. However, he
comfortable.”
The injury came at a particularly bad time
Martin Fulop was in goal that day and
believes Scotland have a brighter future
unfortunately for him the heavy defeat
under new manager Craig Levein. Gordon
for Gordon and the club. He was playing some
coincided with Gordon’s availability. For the
knows all about Levein, he was his manager
of his best football and Sunderland looked like
next match, the FA Cup fourth round tie
at Hearts before his transfer to Sunderland.
outside contenders for Europe. However, the
against Portsmouth, Fulop was dropped. “I
“I think we’ll be organised, he’s always had
ensuing months saw Steve Bruce’s side pay a
have had that happen to me before and it’s
very disciplined teams and I think he’ll
heavy price for injuries, not just to their keeper,
not nice but there wasn’t a great deal Martin
do the same with Scotland, try and give
but a number of other first team regulars, with
could do,” says Gordon. “We spoke about it
us a good base to win games from,” says
the defence particularly hard hit.
afterwards and overall he didn’t have that
Gordon. “We know that if we can’t go out
bad a game. “It was one of those games
and dominate teams then we need to be
where the goalkeeper is totally exposed.”
hard to beat, it’ll be back to basics and
Steve Bruce was on record saying “I was
absolutely delighted with his form, he was
starting to look like the goalkeeper we paid all
backpage images
the last minute somebody is brought in who
the run was the 7-2 defeat by Chelsea at
protect the injured arm. “The surgeon wants
Craig Gordon is desperate to make up
for lost time after being plunged back
into Sunderland’s fight for Premiership
survival. The 27-year-old spent 11
frustrating weeks on the sidelines after
breaking his arm in a collision with
Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe.
Without question the low point of
hopefully with everybody fit we can go and
that money for,” Bruce said, as quoted by Press
The old way
win matches and qualify for the European
Association Sport. “To have him out for three
Things have now started to improve for the
Championships.”
months is a blow, for sure. He is devastated
Black Cats, players have returned from injury
Editors note: Craig’s fine form since returning
with what happened but he will get over it.”
and the recent transfer window has seen
to the side has seen him win consecutive Man
Gordon adds “We’ve played 14 different
a couple of new faces arrive. The January
of the Match awards and the team pull clear of
window is always a hectic period for clubs
the relegation zone.
back fours in the premier league this season
SPRING 2010 19
22/04/2010 20:17:47
KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KIT KI
UHLSPORT Fangmaschine
Supersoft
Sudafrika
Sells Goalkeeper Products
ADIDAS Fingersave Allround
PUMA POWERCAT 1.10
The 09/10 season has seen the latest glove technology
The new adidas Fingersave Allround features the popular
Inspired by the Italian national team, Gil
used across the Sells range with Adhesion Ultra
brand’s trademark Fingersave Spines, redesigned for this
Azzurri, the PowerCat 1.10 reflects the
Advanced and Adhesion Maxima latex setting
year; different stiffness degrees, but with the same wear
power, courage and the passion of the
With 16 keepers in the World Cup,
new standards in
comfort. Designed to perform excellently in a wide variety
reigning world champions.
Uhlsport are using the opportunity
glove performance.
of conditions, and to keep
to launch their “We Take
This season
The PowerCat 1.10 is the perfect
performing even under
combination of engineering and comfort.
Action” programme to
Sells has
duress, the Allround
Made from super soft Kangaroo leather
support Aids orphans in
introduced a
is exactly what
these boots provide ultimate comfort for
South Africa.
new Wrap
it sounds like; a
the athlete. The PowerCat 1.10 not only
Glove –
jack-of-all-trades
provides great protection, power and comfort
wear the Fangmaschine Supersoft
the Axis
GK glove that excels
Sudafrika glove with a distinctive
- through the blade stud configuration the player
360 – with
across the board.
yellow palm with proceeds from the
will also experience smooth ground penetration and pressure
improved
sale of these products going directly to
fit and a
Punching Control area
Project SOS. For more information visit
contemporary
across the knuckles and
www.uhlsport.com
design. A new
backhand allows for
range, the Convex, for
maximum impact transfer
a different closer fit replacing the
to the ball while protecting
popular Contour range, plus the continued
the hand of the keeper
development of the very popular Total Contact
with layered memory and EVA foam. The glove is secured with
range.
an incredibly reliable bandage wrist closure and full wrist strap.
All Uhlsport keepers will
Reusch Xosa Pro
G1
The Reusch Xosa Pro G1 will be
the most visible glove at the
forthcoming World Cup.
All Reusch sponsored
goalkeepers will be
wearing the colourful
and vibrant gloves at
the tournament,
including those
from pretournament
favourites Brazil
and Argentina.
www.reuschuk.com
20 SPRING 2010
With Outlast technology providing temperature
The glove features a
distribution whilst still being able to move around quickly.
Worn by PUMA players including Michael Carrick, Nemanja
Vidic and Wayne Hennessey.
www.puma.com
www.adidas.com
selection of glove cuts, the range has a glove to suit all
keepers in all conditions.
www.sellsgoalkeeperproducts.com
Recent signings
Players that have recently signed a new contract or extended
their agreement with an equipment manufacturer are:
Adidas: Scott Carson, WBA; Edwin van der Sar, Man U; Petr Čech, Chelsea.
Sells Goalkeeper Products: Allan McGregor, Rangers; Andrew Lonergan,
Preston; Heurelho Gomes, Spurs; Wayne Hennessey, Wolves.
Uhlsport: Pepe Reina, Liverpool.
Precision Goalkeeping: Brian Jensen, Burnley.
Precision
Goalkeeping has
control, guard technology for protection, Aquastem
technology for wet conditions and combined with a
Precision Goalkeeping
Selsport Wrappa XTR
already made
its debut in the
Premier League
The Wrappa XTR is a new top end glove by Selsport
despite its gloves
Goalkeeping Products for the 2010/11 season.
not being on the
The Wrappa XTR takes some original features of the famous
Wrappa Classic, but introduces a new slim fit anatomical
fit which offers greater conform and performance. The
palm consists of a new 4mm Wet / Dry Ultra
Adhesion latex along with a 4mm
market until later
in 2010.
Part of Britain’s
fastest growing
sports brand -
soft foam to increase the comfort
Precision Training
Backhand is 4mm latex. Selsport
- the Precision Goalkeeping range will be releasing products to
Tri Lock strap system in place.
The glove will be available
market in May this year.
Burnley’s, Brian “the Beast” Jensen (pictured), is already
from May 2010.
wearing the gloves in the Premier League and more keepers are
www.selsport.com
expected to follow suit. www.precisiontraining.uk.com
SPRING 2010 21
22/04/2010 20:17:57
knew it was the right move.”
temporarily. “I’m looking to go out on loan
At the start of last season with limited
now,” he says. “Training is all well and good
opportunities in the first team, it was
but you need to play competitive games to
He may only be 16, but Swindon’s Jamie
decided he would go out on loan to Barrow
develop - that’s ultimately what’s going to
Stephens has already caught the eye
in the Blue Square Conference. “I absolutely
make you a better keeper. “I just want to get
of one top premiership side. Stephens
loved my time at Barrow, I still talk to the
out and play games -I need to try and make
recently spent 5 days training with the
manager and have stayed in touch with
that transition from youth football to first
academy at Liverpool and will continue
some of the players.”
team football.”
to be monitored by the Merseyside club.
And his time at Barrow will certainly
Foderingham has continued to impress
be remembered by
the fans following
a man of the match
WES FODERINGHAM
friendly place.”
Middlesbrough in
Mark Schwarzer, a player
After being watched by Liverpool
the third round of
he obviously admires and
scouts, the opportunity came about due
respects. “For me he’s one
to Swindon manager Danny Wilson’s
of the best in the premier
friendship with Liverpool legend Kenny
league, week in week out
Dalglish, who is now their Academy
he’s been exceptional for
Ambassador. It was a great opportunity for
Fulham,” Foderingham
Stephens and he certainly feels he didn’t
says. “Around the training
let himself down. “I think I did quite well.
ground he’s fantastic,
The other keepers of my age group are
he gives you plenty of
technically very good, but I was pleased
advice on how to adjust
with how I coped.”
last year’s FA Cup. It
become a regular for the reserve team, but
While Elliot Parish is still waiting in the
the lads I’ve grown up with and played with
Guzan is another really top bloke, he’s really
going out to play in
wings at Aston Villa, he’s already had
have already had first team experience,” he
bubbly. “If you arrive in the morning and feel
front of 26,000 gave me
says. ”But for me being a
a bit down you only have to talk to him for 5
a taste of what it would
goalkeeper it’s different,
minutes and you feel much better.”
be like to play at the
plenty of international
Under-20 World Cup
ELLIOT PARISH
I’d imagine it’ll be quite
iams
experience. England’s
Aston Villa FC / Neville Will
campaign in Egypt
last summer may not
have gone according
to plan, but Parish
was hailed as one
of the stars of the
tournament.
He was first choice in
all of their group games,
and although the side
only managed 1 draw and
2 defeats, the 19-year-old
AGE: 19
HEIGHT: 189cm
WEIGHT: 83kg
Subzero
GLOVES: Sells Wrap Axis
r
BOOTS: Umbro SX Valo
: Peter Schmeichel
INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER
lsea
CLUB SUPPORTED: Che
coaches - Seamus
BIGGEST INFLUENCE: 3
Andy Quy
and
le
Stee
Eric
gh,
ona
McD
T: Kings of Leon
FAVOURITE BAND/ARTIS
earned plenty of praise.
a few years down the
line before I get the
Alan Martin
facilities and they have so many staff,
everyone is so polite and it’s a really
Elliot Parish
nice guy, he’s as good as you can get. “Brad
Fulham. He trains regularly
means working alongside
2-1 defeat for the nonhe’s realistic about the next step. “A few of
Stephens. “The Academy has fantastic
with the first team and that
ended in a creditable
it and is very willing to help out. He’s a really
leaguers.
“It was unbelievable;
AGE: 19
HEIGHT: 185cm
WEIGHT: 75kg
Pro DPS
GLOVES: Umbro Hension
r
BOOTS: Umbro SX Valo
: David James
INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER
castle United
New
:
TED
POR
SUP
B
CLU
Dad
BIGGEST INFLUENCE: My
T: Drake
FAVOURITE BAND/ARTIS
highest level.”
your game. “He also
gives you confidence when you’re training
the final day he went to the first team’s
Martin returned to Leeds and despite going
with him as he’s good at giving out praise.
Melwood training ground. There he got the
“He’s a big friendly giant!”
chance to train with first-team goalkeeper
chance, you just need
Scotland Under-21 keeper, Alan Martin,
on pre-season tour with the first team was
to be patient and keep
began his career coming through the
loaned out again – this time to League Two
working hard”
ranks at Motherwell. In June 2007 he
and Accrington Stanley. “For me it’s much
Cottage where Foderigham
left Fir Park before making his first team
better than playing reserve-team football,
has caught the eye; he
Pepe Reina’s deputy. “I
could mean working hard
debut. There had been interest from
it’s nice to be going out onto the pitch
was part of the England
found that very hard,
for a number of years to
Rangers, but when the call came from
knowing every game counts.”
Under-17 squad that
high intensity and very
come. First choice Brad
Dennis Wise, the then Leeds manager;
played at the World Cup
technical but I really
Friedel may be 39, but
there was only one direction he wanted
being selected in the first team squad for a
in South Korea and at the
enjoyed it.“
number of games this season, he admits his
European Championships
debut could still be some time off, he said:
in Israel. Despite his
move - but not
“I don’t think it’ll come this season, if we get
obvious potential he has
And for Parish that
to go.
shows no
signs of
ALAN MARTIN
So a dream
retiring
He was recalled in October and despite
It’s not just at Craven
exactly a great time
promoted early maybe the gaffer will give
a very realistic outlook
Under-16s, and then there was a big gap
a solid second choice with
to be arriving at
me a chance.”
and is fully aware of the
before getting a call-up to the Under-20
25-year-old Brad Guzan.
Elland Road. “When
squad completely out of the blue,” he says. “I
While most players would
traveled away with the squad as third choice
feel frustrated by the quality
but ended up playing every game. “It was
ahead of them, Parish sees
a great experience and despite not making
it as an advantage. “In terms
it to the knockout stages, I really enjoyed it.
of 2 keepers above me, you
“Obviously you want to win every game, but
couldn’t have anybody better,”
I was happy with my performance”
says Parish “As a young keeper
working with Brad Friedel
years. He joined the club at 8 and has risen
there’s nobody better in my
through the academy ranks. This season he’s
opinion, he’s been there, done
backpage images
just yet, and behind him is
22 SPRING 2010
After training with the academy, on
After a successful season with Barrow,
“I played for England
Parish has now been with Villa for over 11
“It was an amazing experience,” says
throughout his time at
performance against
backpage images
takes a look at the stars of the future
Jamie Stephens
AGE: 21
HEIGHT: 183cm
WEIGHT: 76kg
GLOVES: Sells Wrap
BOOTS: Nike Legends
INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER: Peter Schm
eichel
CLUB SUPPORTED: Celtic
BIGGEST INFLUENCE: My family
FAVOURITE BAND/ARTIST: Oasis
I signed they had
Wes Foderingham
need to be patient. “As
a goalkeeper you peak
later than other players,
just come out of
JAMIE STEPHENS
coach Xavi Valero
and Diego Calvalieri,
With a club like
Liverpool showing
AGE: 16
HEIGHT: 190cm
WEIGHT: 82kg
GLOVES: Sells Wr
ap Axis Aqua
BOOTS: Nike CTR
INSPIRATIONAL PLA
YER: Gianluigi Buff
on
CLUB SUPPORTED
: Forest Green
BIGGEST INFLUEN
CE: My parents
FAVOURITE BAND
/ARTIST: Bloc Par
ty
interest, it would be easy
for a young player to get
carried away; however
Stephens is taking
nothing for granted and
remains realistic about the
administration and
Not many Fulham fans have seen Wes
usually your best years
there was the points
Foderingham play, but those who have
are after the age of 30 as you break into
deduction,” says the
believe they’ve seen a star in the making.
the side a lot later” he says. “You get the
if I don’t make it as a footballer id like to
20-year-old. “But
The 19-year-old has been at Craven
odd exception like Joe Hart, which is great
be a lecturer like my mum. She lectures
even with all that
Cottage since the age of 9 and has risen
to see, but usually you have to graft away
geography.”
going on there was a
through the ranks.
in the lower leagues and work your way
brilliant atmosphere
at the club and I
He’s keen to continue his progress and
that would appear to be away from Fulham
future.
“I’m going to complete my ‘A’ levels and
up. “It’s later in your career before you
Editors note: This highly regarded keeper may
make it in the premier league.”
have to put his teaching career on ice!!
SPRING 2010 23
22/04/2010 20:18:15
“I think he’s had a difficult start at
Neil Alexander
Scotland’s Euro
Dreams in Safe Hands
the season admitted it has been awkward
sum of money and has been unlucky with
repeatedly leaving out his No2, despite the
injuries. Added to that, he’s playing against
keeper not having put a foot wrong.
“As a manager, you stand or fall by
many of the best players in the world. But
there’s no questioning his quality and we’re
those decisions,” he said. “But it is awkward,
lucky to have him,” said the fiercely proud Scot.
considering that he’s a terrific professional,”
said Smith.
Ready Replacement
Rangers’ highly-rated keeper, Neil Alexander says the country’s
goalkeeping talent could be the key to restoring Scottish international pride.
F
chose to stay with the ‘Gers. And earlier in
Sunderland. He was transferred for a huge
“He’s not let the disappointment prevent
And in Allan McGregor, Neil believes
him applying himself to the game. He’s been
Scotland have a world class ready
excellent for us when he’s come in and played.”
replacement.
A solid performance as a second half
“I’d heard how good Allan was before
substitute against Switzerland in 2006
I arrived at Rangers. But you’ve no idea
guaranteed his place in the Scottish team
just how good he is until you see him up
which won the Kirin Cup later that year -
close.
each and every
the disappointment was all
day on the training
too clear. Their worst fears
pitch to improve his
confirmed as Scotland joined
technique” said Neil,
Spain and the Czech Republic in Group I -
who represented
the ‘Group of Death’ at the Euro 2012 draw.
his country at
Craig Levein’s arrival has brought with
Under 18, 19, 20
it renewed optimism North of the border.
and 21s - and has
But his brave new world will begin with a
3 full caps for his
baptism of fire against two of the giants of
country - a source
European football.
of great pride.
However Glasgow Rangers’ Neil
Repeated
Alexander believes his countrymen stand a
speculation linking
genuine chance of success - especially with
Neil with a move
Craig Gordon and Allan McGregor in the
away from Ibrox
squad.
lD
OB: 10/03/1978
two goalies who are amongst the finest in
Europe, says the 31-year old keeper.
“Craig has everything, the physique, the
appearances (Ed:
lH
eight: 6’1
l Weight: 11st
7lbs
l Team: Rangers
l Married: Yes, to Joanne
l Kids: Holly 6 Olivia 2
l Drives: Range Rover Sport
l Holiday: Florida and Dubai
l Must have on holiday: mobile
l Golf handicap: 12
l Reads: mainly sports
autobiographies
l What’s on the CD: Eminem,
50 cent
some terrific performances for Scotland in
Image courtesy of Rangers FC
the last campaign and he’s getting more
experienced all the time.
“There’s some good young keepers in the
SPL, but if he stays fit, I can see Craig being
Scotland’s number one for the next 10 or 12
years.
Neil made his 6th
appearance in the
CSI Cup Final victory
over St Mirren helping
Rangers to a clean
sheet in a 1-0 win with
only 9 men!)
for the ‘Gers in the
League Cup and SPL
and boasts five wins,
with only two goals
conceded.
“It looks like the club will offer me a new
deal in the summer. It’s a magnificent club
“Sometimes it’s difficult being a
and I get on great with Allan. Hopefully
number two and only playing every so
I provide some competition to help him
often. But I came to Rangers knowing
become a better player.”
Allan was number one and whilst I’m
presense and the technique. He produced
Japan.
Neil’s made five
lP
OB: Edinburgh
window.
But in Gordon and McGregor, we’ve got
against Bulgaria and
So far this season,
lA
ge: 31
distraction during the latest transfer
task in qualifying for Poland and Ukraine.
Personal Details
was an unwelcome
“There’s no doubting we face an uphill
Euro 2012
qualifying
groups:
playing both matches
“He works hard
or the Tartan Army faithful,
Image courtesy of Rangers FC
INTERVIEW
Although born and bred in Edinburgh,
improving and learning as a keeper, I’m
the lad who used to watch Hearts as a kid
happy,” said Neil who joined the club in
says he has no burning ambition to return to
2008 after seven seasons with Cardiff City
Tynecastle as a player... at least not yet!
and Ipswich Town.
“As a family we’re all very settled in
Glasgow. I spent a long time getting the
Walter’s tribute
chance to come to a club like Rangers, so I’m
Manager Walter Smith was delighted Neil
not in a rush to get away.”
Scotland’s World Cup Record
1930: Did not enter
1934: Did not enter
1938: Did not enter
1950: Withdrew
1954: Round one
1958: Round one
1962: Did not qualify
1974: Round one
1978: Round one
1982: Round one
1986: Round one
1990: Round one
1998: Round one
European Championships
1960-64: Did not enter
1968-88: Did not qualify
1992: Round one
1996: Round one
cotland squad vs Czech
S
Republic (3 March):
Neil Alexander – Rangers
Craig Gordon – Sunderland
David Marshall – Cardiff City
Group A:
Group B:
Group C:
Group D:
Group E:
Group F:
Group G:
Group H:
Group I:
Germany, Turkey, Austria,
Russia, Slovakia, Republic
Italy, Serbia, Northern
France, Romania, Bosnia-
Holland, Sweden,
Croatia, Greece,
England, Switzerland,
Portugal, Denmark,
Spain, Czech Republic,
Belgium, Kazakhstan,
of Ireland, FYR Macedonia,
Ireland, Slovenia, Estonia,
Herzegovina, Belarus,
Finland, Hungary,
Israel, Latvia, Georgia,
Bulgaria, Wales,
Norway, Cyprus,
Scotland, Lithuania,
Azerbaijan
Armenia, Andorra
Faroe Islands
Albania, Luxembourg
Moldova, San Marino
Malta
Montenegro
Iceland
Liechtenstein
22/04/2010 20:18:27
C
O
C AC
O H
R I
N N
E G
R
COACHING CORNER COACHING CORNER COACHING CORNER COACHING CORNER COACHING CORNER COACHING CORNER COACHING CORNER
Recruitment,
certainly improved my own personal skills as
a coach and opened my eyes into the many
&
match preparation
attributes that he acquired over his many
years as a top goalkeeper. This for me can only
go on to benefit the many Academy keepers
young talent
Portsmouth goalkeeper coach David Coles on recruitment, young talent
and how match preparation for the senior keepers has changed.
D
avid Coles has had the
“Being strong in all these areas is a key to
that I work with.”
Coles has seen a change in his weekly
pre-match training preparation with more
focus on the movements and characteristics
of the oppositions forwards and attacking
play that the goalkeeper is likely to face. He
uses tailored DVD footage so that practices
can be designed on the opposition in
this is what you and the goalkeeper strives
young goalkeeper the opportunity to learn
for. You as a coach always look to develop
from some of the best in the business and
and improve the goalkeepers’ skills by
also break into the side if they show the right
game are focussed on re-creating what the
enhancing both strengths and weaknesses
desire and personality towards the profession.
attackers do, how they shoot, where crosses
Coles has a very good relationship with
come from and this goes down to the finer
on a daily and weekly basis in training. Having
preparation for the game ahead.
“The last two days in the build up to the
pleasure of working with
being a successful keeper but Coles believes
specific individual tailored programmes for
David James and likes to use him as an
detail of the penalty taker and what side
players such as David
one of these is becoming more important.
goalkeepers is something I will think about
example to his academy players in both talent
he favours.” Coles adds, “David is a very big
“The personality and social side of a
and examine in relation to my keepers every
and application. He often brings the academy
statistics man and likes to analyse both the
James, Antti Niemi and
Jamie Ashdown on a daily basis but still
player is key to succeeding in the game.
time we work together, I then try and spend
along to watch the 1st team train and James
opposition as well as his own game right
gets excited about watching academy
You have to have the right personality and
time on that skill which I feel can be expanded
has been able to spend time with them and
down to the last detail. If there is something
matches and coaching young players that
attitude in order to progress. The days of just
further for his education.”
offer up some unique first hand advice. James
that he notices as weaknesses in the
understands the importance of the academy
opposition and he can exploit that area, he
show great promise.
being technically sound are long gone.”
Recruiting players in the Premier League
An example of this is Asmir Begovic who
is a tough market especially for one of
and shocked Coles on the victory bus after
will practice to do so for both his and the
League club Portsmouth life is not just
was developed by Coles over four and a half
the smaller less affluent clubs such as
their popular FA Cup final victory in 2008:
teams advantage. This may be something
about keeping his top four keepers match
years at the club, coming through the Academy
Portsmouth. The academy is a huge focus for
fit, ‘Colesy’ is very hands on when it comes
system to being sold on deadline this year for
Coles and he prides himself on being able to
shouted over too me “Colesy” have a look
the field on to a weaker full back to keeping
to the recruitment of players and searching
£3.25 million to Stoke City and Coles thinks they
bring players through this process whether
over there, is that Tom Fry our under-14
his own back four higher if crosses are put
have an absolute steal for the future.
it be for Pompey themselves or for lower
academy keeper in the celebrations.”
in from all angles giving him room to come
As the head goalkeeper coach of Premier
for the up and coming stars.
“Depending on when the first team play,
David Coles / Image courtesy of Joe Pepler/Portsmouth FC
“I have never come across a goalkeeper as
league clubs. With a player roster including
I like to attended at least 2 matches a week
on basics to see where their skills are at
dedicated to goalkeeping as Asmir. We would
James and Niemi and with Coles able to
sometimes three if it’s possible. I went to
in relation to our Academy keepers at the
travel to games with him wanting to talk and
offer his expert tuition, Portsmouth offers a
Winchester on my way home from training
club. If we find a youngster that shows real
observe goalkeeping all the way to games
on Sunday to observe our Academy game.
potential then we monitor his progress over a
with the reserves and do exactly the same on
I like to watch as many goalkeepers as
period of four weeks, before integrating him
the way home. He was very knowledgeable
possible you never know when a star can be
with our Academy structure
on the art and has real desire and passion
on your door step.”
Coles relies on his worldwide scouts to
“Between 7-12
years old I am looking
search the professional leagues and advise
for a player with very
him of certain players form but viewing the
raw materials but also
local talent is more about numbers.
someone that enjoys
“The policy I adopted at Southampton
playing in goal. As they
I have always said
if you are good
enough you
are old enough
for his craft.” Coles goes
on “Asmir is as close
as I have ever seen to
Imagine how that young man felt knowing
and deal more often. Attention to detail is so
David James was calling to him and waving.
important as we are always walking a tight
Working with David is a pleasure really; he has
rope between success and failure.”
YOU ARE THE REF
the warm-up, opponents
1 During
come to you and complain about
the home goalkeeper’s bizarrely oversized gloves - claiming it gives him an
unfair advantage. What do you do?
by Keith Hackett and Paul Trevillion
given an indirect free-kick just outside the
2 You’ve
area. The ball flies across and a striker leaps at it,
appearing to flick it into the net. You give the goal. But
as both sides line up for the restart, you overhear the
striker laughing and confessing to a team-mate that he
didn’t touch the ball. What do you do?
a televised FA Cup fourth-round tie: a top-four
3 It’s
club playing away at a non-league minnow. Before
kick-off the away side’s captain comes to you and says his
team are refusing to play because they’ve seen dog muck
on the pitch. They say it’s unhygienic, even if the bulk of it
is cleared. He wants the game called off. What do you do?
corners. He is one of the
examples I will now use
move into their teens
We have set up a development centre and
I like to assess players using the 4 different
goalkeepers what they need to possess to
ask local clubs to send us there best two
corners:
succeed in today’s ever changing game.”
goalkeepers. We offer them a period of free
(1) Psychological
coaching to check on the talent identification
(2) Physical
in our area, the goalkeepers are divided up
(3) Social
into age related groups and worked with
(4) Technical / Tactical.
simple as distributing into certain areas of
having all of the four
has been developed here at Portsmouth.
26 SPRING 2010
“We were on the parade bus when David
to show all our young
Coles also admits that regardless of the
individual his work is never finished
“I have learnt you never get the finished
article, but you will get close to perfection as
YOU ARE THE REF appears every Sunday in The Observer
See page 29 for answers
SPRING 2010 27
22/04/2010 20:19:42
Bench
View from the
In
’s ‘View from the Bench’ series, Wigan Athletic’s
Mike Pollitt suggests every team has “a Special One” - and
it’s nothing to do with Jose Mourinho!
From time to time, his teammates are
“I’m the PFA rep and the younger lads know
you’ll pay the price. At the same time, a
I’m always around to give advice or sort out
last in. You’re forever putting your head
moment’s hesitation and you’re dead. These
any problems.”
in where it hurts. That’s why you’ll spare
days you get it wrong in a one-on-one and
a moment for your opposing keeper.
it’s a penalty and you’re red carded. “
“At training, you’re the first out and the
Backpass
through each week. You both know that
For more than two decades between the
one minute you can be on top of the world
sticks, Mike has seen significant changes in
Premier League and you just don’t walk
and the next you’re the loneliest man on the
every aspect of the game.
away from that. I played against Man
field when you’ve let a soft goal in.
“Other
goalkeepers
at any level,
will know
what I mean.
that don’t put
and the toss of a coin
he could or should have done better.
the gloves on, haven’t got a clue!”, said Mike,
worth 20 or 30 games to me in the
steps with it!
Championship.
In the last ten
years most
level and once you’re there it’s difficult
rule changes
to walk away. I’ve played in every league
to our game
and I know what it’s like at the bottom. I
have been to
appreciate everything I get now.”
do with goalkeeping.”
“You get to learn a lot about yourself
your heroes cross the halfway line to
And sometimes, you’ll have plenty of time
Speed of Thought
his career at Manchester United, he tried his
prepare for 90 minutes of combat, watch
to think about it”, said Mike as he ploughs
It’s the pace of the game - and more
lucky at nearby Oldham then Bury before
carefully.
through revision notes ahead of his latest
importantly, the speed of decision-making
establishing himself at Lincoln City four
exams for coaching qualifications.
which has changed most since Mike made
divisions below.
Few things have changed more than the
quality of the opposition. Having started
his league debut in front of a few hundred
And he didn’t take the easy root back
witness a brief insight into the alliance that
So, are goalkeepers
wired up differently?
exists between the blokes with the Number
Philosopher and professional goalkeeper,
‘1’ on their backs.
Albert Camus - one of the most celebrated
you’ve got the likes of Rooney, Drogba or
first signing as they arrived in the Premier
thinkers of the 20th Century - solved some
Anelka bearing down on you. These guys
League in 2005.
the Goalkeepers’ Union. After 22 years as a
of life’s greatest questions whilst keeping
are the best in the world; hitting balls that
pro, he understands why respect for your
net, prompting his famous quote:”All that
are like balloons at you at over 100 mph. It’s
but me and Chris (Kirkland) get on great.
opposite number shines brightest amongst
I know most surely about morality and
definitely not getting any easier, that’s for
I know him inside out and sometimes he
the ‘keeping fraternity.
obligations I owe to football.”
sure.
gives off an impression of being quite
Camus’ words are perhaps more celebrated
fans at Lincoln City’s Sincil Bank on 26
to the top, clawing his way up, through
September 1992.
the likes of Rotherham, Darlington and
“It’s hard to explain what it’s like when
“It’s the most crucial aspect of a keeper’s
Chesterfield before becoming Wigan’s
“It’s not always easy warming the bench
sensible, but deep down I know he’s just as
suppose. We’re like drummers in a band,
than the doctrines of other goalkeeping
game these days. The ability to make the right
people think we’re different; that we’re daft
philosophers - “If you stand still there is only
decisions quickly that sorts good keepers from
in some way,” said the keeper who at 38,
one way to go, and that’s backwards.” (Peter
great ones. You’ve got a split second to decide
to be needed so you keep yourself in top
knows a thing or two about what makes
Shilton) or “If you don’t believe you can win,
to come, to stay, to punch or parry.
shape.”
‘keepers tick.
there is no point in getting out of bed at the
“And on the whole, they’re right. We’re
end of the day.” (Neville Southall).
a vital cog in the machine at a club, but
everything we do is different. So the
It’s All In The Head
position attracts a different type of person.”
But Mike - who carries the not-so-
Mike knows that the vast majority of goals
imaginative nickname of ‘Polly’ - admits
scored by his team have nothing to do with
that it’s not only the fans who struggle to
him. But like most keepers, conceding a goal
understand the dark art of goalkeeping.
“All footballers strive to get to the highest
Image by Bernard Platt / courtesy of Wigan Athletic FC
Image by Bernard Platt / courtesy of Wigan Athletic FC
walk four
and your teammates when you’re in goal.
“ We’re part of our own Crazy Gang, I
United at Old Trafford this season and
although we lost, that occasion was
ends. The next time
now in his 5th season at the DW stadium.
“I spent years trying to get to the
backpass and
leads to a change of
Mike Pollitt is a fully paid up member of
28 SPRING 2010
as he can in the best league in the world.
“When I started, you could pick up a
One minute you
can be on top of the
world and the next
you’re the loneliest
man on the field...
leads to inevitable thoughts about whether
wish ‘Good Luck’? If not, then take note and
behind an England international keeper can be
understands what you do and what you go
oments before kick off
full backs make a beeline for each other to
As for his own ambitions, whilst playing
frustrating, Mike is keen to play as many games
He’s the only one on the pitch who really
breath, those
Do opposing strikers shake hands? Do
Father Figure
world but if you’re making rash decisions,
equally guilty.
In the same
M
“You can have the best hands in the
daft as me.”
“ You never know when you’re going
Keith Hackett’s official answers to “YOU ARE THE REF” questions on page 27:
1) Dismiss the complaints. As odd as it may seem, there’s nothing in the laws to regulate the size of gloves: they simply need to be safe – so you’d base your decision on that. There
are various rules about gloves – including the condition in some competitions that they can only carry one logo – but nothing to do with size.
2) Ignore what you’ve overheard. You’re within your rights to change your decision before the restart, but can you really trust the player’s comment – particularly when you don’t
have any corroborative evidence from your assistants? You need to be absolutely certain to overrule such a crucial decision, and hearsay doesn’t add up to much – so stand by
your original call.
3) M
ake a representative from the home club remove the muck, and make the pitch, in your opinion, fit for play. You do have to consider any danger or risk to players, which
includes issues around hygiene, but really, this is an over-reaction from the top-flight players. In my career I’ve had to have all sorts removed from pitches before games: and I
remember vividly having to get a shovel out myself to move cow pats before one Sunday match.
SPRING 2010 29
22/04/2010 20:20:47
CHARITIES CHARITIES CHARITIES CHARITIES CHARITIES CHARITIES
is very proud to support the efforts of charity organisations Sparks, Help for
Heroes, CHILDREN with LEUKAEMIA and Everyman. We encourage our readers
to support them too and wish them continued success with their inspirational work.
G
oalkeepers ‘r’ Us. Well, not just
goalkeepers, but some of the
greatest exponents of the art
are among the famous Ambassadors of
Sparks, the children’s medical research charity, founded and
supported by many of Britain’s leading sportsmen and women.
With Ray Clemence as a dedicated vice-president and Peter Shilton,
O
ne of the greatest medical success stories of the last
century is the amazing increase in the survival rate
from childhood leukaemia - but leukaemia still claims
the lives of one in five children diagnosed in the UK.
CHILDREN with LEUKAEMIA is Britain’s leading charity dedicated
to the conquest of this devastating disease. Not only do we fund
ground-breaking research into the development of more effective, yet
Gordon Banks, Pat Jennings, Bruce Grobbelaar, Neville Southall, Dave
kinder, treatments, but we have a worldwide programme of research
Beasant and Tony Parkes hands-on champions, Sparks’s links with the
investigating the underlying causes of the disease.
goalkeeping brotherhood are particularly strong.
While among great footballing names more associated with the art
While research is the key to
protecting future generations, the
of putting the ball past the keeper, Sir Geoff Hurst is Sparks’s president
charity also remembers that there are
2010, and Sir Trevor Brooking a trustee and vice-president and the
children suffering today by supporting
legendary Jimmy Hill, one of the charity’s original founders, remains
a number of community based initiatives, including children’s hospices
Honorary Life President. Matt Le Tissier, Mark Bright, Ossie Ardiles, Ricky
and other organisations that support families outside the hospital setting.
Villa, Glenn Hoddle, Alan Kennedy, Alan Hansen, Alan McInally and Alan
Brazil are just some of the great football names who support Sparks.
For more information, please visit www.leukaemia.org or
telephone: 020 7404 0808.
WORN BY ENGLAND’S BEST
BEN FOSTER
AND
ROB GREEN
FOR THE LATEST GOALKEEPER NEWS, GLOVE TECHNOLOGY, TRAINING TIPS AND LOADS MORE GO TO
WWW .SELLSGOALKEEPERPRODUCTS. COM
22/04/2010 20:22:31
OUTSIDE THE BOX
a regular feature on life post retirement
Image courtesy of Dave Evans/Swindon Advertiser
Fraser hung up
his gloves... and
his washbag!
In our series of features with retired keepers,
talks to Fraser
Digby - a former Manchester United apprentice who fulfilled his
dream of playing in the Premier League the hard way.
as a ballboy at Bramall Lane. “I used to play
England Youth and later England U21s. So a
during my playing years. That’s been really
centre half for my school and went in net for
life between the sticks was presumably top
important to me,” said Fraser who still lives
my cub scout team. I had a trial for Sheffield
of his careers form?
in Wiltshire along with his wife and three
Boys as a defender and did ok, but one
“No, not really. The problem was I went
sons. “I worked for the club, becoming their
of the coaches there had seen me play in
straight to Man Utd from school. Luckily I’d
commercial manager and more recently I’ve
goal so threw me the gloves and in I went.”
got 9 o’levels under my belt but I had no
been involved in several projects all relating
O
Four years later, Fraser was shot-stopping
idea what I wanted to be. I did day release
to sport and the local community. The
k mate, see you in the
at Manchester United’s training ground,
doing electrical engineering, following in
goodwill from the people around Swindon
bar.” As Marc Bircham,
one-on-one with the likes of Mark Hughes,
my Dad’s footsteps. I just hated it. In the nick
has been a huge help.”
Paul Furlong and the rest
Gordon Strachan and Jesper Olsen.
of time, Swindon came in for me and the
Loftus Road dressing room, Fraser Digby
goalkeeping coach Eric Harrison that Fraser
stared straight through the steam into an
adopted a philosophy which, he says, has
Robin Reliant
uncertain future. Rangers’ embarrassing
served him proud - and would be the best
Fraser’s arrival at The County Ground in
defeat at the hands of Vauxhall Motors
advice he would give to a young keeper
1986 coincided with the start of the most
the work we do. We helped them move from
from the Unibond League not only
starting out in the game.
successful period in Swindon’s 130-year
a cramped town centre location to a 17-acre
history. In front of a meagre 3,000 fans,
site out of town. Now they’re going from
strength to strength.” (www.cirentownfc.com)
“
It was here under the wing of United’s
of his teammates left the
“ Eric told me to shut up and listen. He
signalled the end of their FA Cup exploits
football really took off.”
said pick up anything I could from those
The Robins began the ascent from League
keeper, it meant the end of the road as a
who had been there and done it. Because I
Division 4
professional footballer.
was keen to learn, the likes of Chris Turner
to the dizzy
and Gary Bailey were very helpful to me.
heights of the
stomach. I just knew that was it.” said Fraser
Later on I returned to Man Utd on loan for a
Premier League
“ It went to penalties and I had the chance to
couple of months and faced Bryan Robson,
in seven action-
be the hero. But they beat us and that was
Ryan Giggs, Paul Ince and of course, Eric
packed years.
that. The club was skint, my contract was up
Cantona. I remember my first day back with
and I knew I didnt want to drop down the
them. The quality there was phenomenal
had never
and that’s why they are so good. You had to
seen anything like it. After the play-off win
be on tip top form to survive.”
against Leicester, we paraded round the
Today, 7 years on, the memories of more
than 500 league appearances remain clear.
That final match comes to all pros one day.
But that inevitable day did little to quell the
panic he was feeling.
Red Devil
Fraser had come a long way since his days
32 SPRING 2010
leagues. So it was pretty obvious, it was over.“
For 18 years, Fraser went on to
benefit from the mantras of some of the
biggest names in the game; Atkinson,
“ The fans
“ Cirencester Town is a good example of
We were
like Swindon
royalty
a thriving 1st team,
junior, academy and
ladies section, whilst
their ground also
brings in income from
hosting seminars,
corporate training
days and the occasional wedding.
“We’ve helped them become a key part
town on an open-top bus. We were like
of the town. All the kids come and train
Swindon royalty,” he recalls.
in one place, whilst the parents watch in
And it was that connection with the local
community which was to serve him well
contributed to help Fraser perform to the
once he’d hung up his gloves.
He played regularly for England Schools,
links with their local communities.
The club now has
Ardiles, Hoddle, Venables and Coppell all
best of his abilities.
Sports Solutions GB, helping clubs develop
new ways of making money and improving
for another year, but for their 36-year old
“I had that feeling in the pit of my
He went on to become a consultant for
“Since retirement I’ve managed to keep
in touch with a lot of the contacts I made
the clubhouse, over a pint and a packet of
crisps. It’s been a great success story.”
More recently, Fraser has also joined
forces with the property corporation IP
Global, providing opportunities for those
SPRING 2010 33
22/04/2010 20:22:53
interested in building a property portfolio
both in the UK and further afield.
“Lou had us unbelievably fit. He’d
have us all doing five-mile runs through
“My role has been to introduce potential
the streets of the town.You try to get a
new investors to the company. So far, we’ve
player these days to do a five-mile run
invested £350million in property in Europe
and he’d tell you where to get off!
alone. We research and analyse global
“ As far as keeping was concerned,
he was a stickler for fitness. He didnt
best potential and if needs be, we will also
bother too much with specific keeper
manage and service the property for the
training. He just said so long as I was fit,
client, if they choose to rent it out.”
I’d be ok”
Learning from the Best
Inspirational Leader
In just short of 20 years, Fraser benefitted
However, when it came to the man who
from the experiences of some of the finest
inspired Fraser the most through his
managers around including Glenn Hoddle,
leadership - his choice is not the most
Ozzie Ardiles, Terry Venables and Steve
obvious. “Oli ( Ian Holloway) was always
Coppell.
brilliant with me. “He didnt renew my
Fraser believes Venables was the most
property markets, select the ones with the
contract, but the club was skint and
a player retires, he can miss the dressing
talented coach he worked with, while the
he couldnt keep me.” remembers Fraser. “
room banter most of all. Turning out for the
best manager was his first boss at Swindon,
He always gets the very best out of people
Masters has been brilliant for me.”
Lou Macari, who paid £32,000 for him.
because he is so effervescent, such a larger
“Lou brought me from Man Utd to
than life character.
Fraser’s fame has more recently spread to
and Alex Ferguson came in. We had a chat,
anything he wasn prepared to do himself.
a brand new audience, care of an unlikely
I told him that I didnt think I was close to
You could walk into training and maybe
source. A listener to Danny Baker’s 606 show
breaking into the first team so off I went.
you’d be down in the dumps. Then you’d see
emailed in a confession. It emerged that
him run out for training with a smile on his
during a tour of Swindon Town’s football
face and you couldnt help but be inspired.
ground, he had come across Fraser’s
Fraser Digby Factfile:
l Division 3 Play-Off Final Winner 1987
l Division 2 Play-off Final Winner 1990
l Division 1 Play-off Final Winner 1993
l Division 2 Champions 1995/6
l Debut: (On loan) at Oldham Athletic
1985
l Joins Swindon Town on a free transfer
in December 1986 after two loan spells
l Drives: (His wife’s Golf TDI while she
drives his Range Rover?)
l Favourite artist: Luther Vandross
l Last CD bought: Brian McKnight
l Favourite holiday destination:
Barbados
l Favourite supporters: Has to be
Swindon Town.
l Superstitions (Left boot on first -
kicking foot!)
l Claim to Fame: Swindon Town Player
of the Year three times
l Claim to Fame (2): Never lost at
Wembley in three visits
34 SPRING 2010
“Life’s dealt him some major problems
washbag in the changing room and taken
over the years, especially regarding his
a tortoiseshell comb as a memento, thus
loved ones, but nothing ever got him down.
coining the phrase ‘Fraser Digby’s Washbag’.
“I’d have a bet with anyone. You spend
Danny Baker felt there was ‘music’ in these
time with him, and you cant help but be
words and latched onto it. The piece,
impressed by him.”
entitled “Fraser Digby’s Washbag” became a
regular feature of his Tuesday night slot.
Banter
Unlike most retired pros, Fraser has been
lucky enough to carry on enjoying the
buzz of a dressing room.
“Ive been lucky enough to play for the
“You dont need me to tell you that the
“It ran and ran and one day I got the
call to be a surprise guest in the studio.
come back from a tour of Malaysia and
Fraser Digby’s Washbag to the tune of Chitty
Vietnam. Before that, we were in Ireland.
Chitty Bang Bang”.
“Viv Anderson’s our captain and we still
get the likes of Ronny Johnsen, David May,
Andy Cole and Jesper Blomqvist to turn out.
On our day, we’re half decent.”
“The camaraderie’s priceless. I think when
contract negotiations, and have been involved in some of the game’s most ground-breaking transfers. World in Motion
has established itself as the leading agency for goalkeepers, recognising the specialist nature of the position in a coaching, technical and
also a contractual sense. Such is the dominance of the company in the marketplace that it has become the ‘go-to’ agency of a club seeking
to recruit a goalkeeper. With a client list that includes a host of current Full and Under 21 internationals, and some of the bright stars of
the future, the company has been encouraged to supply the market with a magazine, GK1, tailor-made for the goalkeeping profession.
With World in Motion by your side, your future is in safe hands.
To guarantee your free receipt of the next issue please complete this form and send to
, Chancery House, 1 Lochaline Street, London W6 9SJ or email info@GK1.co.uk
Name:
Address:
Email:
Phone:
Are there any features that would be of
particular interest?
Comments:
Danny Baker was brilliant, but he absolutely
murdered me in there. I ended up singing
have a real craic.
excellence since its inception in 1997, during which time its Licensed Agents have conducted close to 1,000 transfers/
whole thing is very very wierd,” said Fraser.
Manchester United Masters. We’ve just
We play a bit of football and in between we
marketing service to elite sports professionals. The company has developed a reputation for transparency and professional
Washbag
“He would never ask anyone to do
Swindon on loan. Ron Atkinson got the sack,
W
orld in Motion ltd is one of the UKs leading sports management companies offering a fully integrated management and
“He ran a version of the song every show
for 34 weeks. At one stage they were getting
4 new songs a day and at the end of the
year, ran a top ten!”
If you get 3 minutes and 51 seconds,
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check out: http://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=LcDSiLB_cg0&feature=related
Thank you for reading
22/04/2010 20:23:29
Your future in safe hands
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GK1 - FINAL (4).indd 36
22/04/2010 20:23:31

GK1 - Spring 2010

Transcription

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