So a very quick precis of the evening
SRL- a true underdog story. Told of his time being rejected by Liverpool as a youth, his tour of the Northern small clubs and rejection after rejection. Told how one of the managers begged the chairman for a contract as Rickie was actually losing money and needed to pick up more factory work to afford to live. Credits Pardew for his career taking off. Said he came to Saints and Pardew called him into his office and told him to lift his top. Pointing at his belly Pardew said "that's ****ing disgusting, you're supposed to be a professional footballer" and how Rickie then went on a 3x a day training regime.
Spoke of Cortese, said that whilst he wasn't a particularly nice bloke he should take full credit for getting Saints in to the PL. Wanted the club to act and present as a PL club even in league 1. Stated most of the squad were furious when Nige was binned but surprisingly some were happy (didn't name names) He didn't want Poch and didn't know who he was, said he changed his mind within about 5 minutes of meeting him. Apparently the manager who had the most detail and concepts out of all he worked with.
Stated that Cortese's son led slip that NC wanted to move him on/replace him. Apparently the kid was about 10 and would hang around the players. Said to SRL "My dad wants to buy a new striker. Someone like you but who can run"
He's completing his coaching badges and said he'd love to manage Saints one day. Had all the time in the world for the fans at the end. A genuinely lovely bloke and clearly loves the club. A true model of ****ing hard work and resilience. I wish I'd brought Mini Lincoln as thats a story young men need to hear. Oh, and he smells lovely.