Came from the same small town and went to school with Joe Allen, he's a couple years below me so don't know him that well. His sister was in my class, now he plays for Liverpool she suddenly seems more attractive. (She's not that bad anyway) His family are good friends with my family, his dad was my dentist and his grandfather was our local vet.
Went to school with Marcus Bent for a couple of years. Used to play against Rio Ferdinand as kids. Met Michael Thomas a few times as his daughter & my little Sister were good friends in Primary School. Bumped into David Rocastle in Woolworths. After many years of being told I look like Kevin Campbell, I finally met him, naturally I accused him of having all my odd socks! Our respective female companion's agreed ( mouths wide open ) & had us take a picture lol! Not easy to meet your taller, better looking & more successful double. Still, he took it quite well!
I've sold property to a number of high profile players and managers over the years. Defoe was one and had a leaking shower - took us weeks before we got around to fixing it for him....no idea why it took so long, such a shame
i used to Deliver to Alan Mullery's sports shop,in Banstead,and he was often there behind the counter.
I've played against Walcott, was about 15. I was always the kid who went in goal -not because I was great, just not much of a runner- theo scored a couple against me but I didn't know who he was...
I played againt Robbie Earle at middle and high school level football. Even at middle school you could tell he would make the grade. Pity he played for Port Fail though!! Also was presented with a football trophy by Garth Crooks and played against Phil Heath (ex Stoke player). Ian Cranson ex Stoke centre half lives close by and often see him filling up at our local garage! Begovic Stoke's current keeper lives close by too and I usually see him in Costa coffee in town!
