Fresh off the press, today we have Tey's FC7 interview. It's timely as we get his view on racism and all other things football. Tey's the rock in our defence, no man or woman shall pass. Enjoy!
First things first….Who do you support?
Arsenal… been supporting the Arsenal since I came to this country (Editor: We seem to have a few Gooners, must be something dodgy in the water). I remember my first game, I watched, with the legends, Henry, Viera etc.
I immediately fell in love with the team. Even though I don’t currently follow football religiously like I did before, I still go to the emirates once in a while to show support.
When did you start playing?
I have been playing football on and off but officially started playing from 15 when I joined Pinner Stars… played with them for 2 years. I have been on and off but always do enjoy a five-a-side to keep things going.
What bit of advice would you give to someone just starting out footy?
Be consistent with it! Never stop… once you stop it’s hard to get back into it. I know it is difficult to keep it going with work, studies and so on.
Do you play for fun, fitness, competitiveness or all 3?
Definitely all 3 – ain’t no fun if we are not competing to win 😉 But seriously I think the main thing is having fun and staying fit.
Turf trainers or Studs?
I have both I have no preference really… all depends on where we are playing.
Who is your favourite footballer and why?
Zinedine ‘Zizou’ Zidane – he has great smart and creative play. One play that always stick with me was his goal for Real Madrid when Carlos (another great) crossed the ball into the 18 yard box and Zizou volleyed the ball straight to the top corner. LEGENDARY stuff. There are many many more from this guy!
Who are you most like in football, playing wise?
Franz Beckenbauer – defensive guru. I am not 100% like Franz but he is definitely an inspiration. Control the defence!
Coming to this country at a younger age, what are the differences/similarities in footballing culture in England and Ghana?
The passion of football is felt in both countries from kids to adults. The impact of the English Premier League also is important in Ghana. The population is split between Manchester United and Arsenal. Football means a lot to people in Ghana… I remember when Uruguay beat (cheated) Ghana in the world cup 2010 to get into the semi-finals. That was a tough one for Ghana but it’s all part of the love of the sport.
Suarez cheating Ghana out of the World Cup
Racism has reared it’s head in football recently, do you think authorities can do more or is this systematic of society in general?
Racism anywhere is wrong and needs to be addressed. We have come a long way to dealing with racism in football but more proactive measures can be taken to help further reduce racism.
Given the current social climate, there is a lot around raising awareness and providing a safe environment for players that have been subject to racism or any prejudice to come out and comfortably follow the right protocols to deal with any issues. This is one big step to help reduce racism.
One, Out of Many is an FC7 motto; we're a very multicultural club,
if we can do it, anyone can
Also, providing the right support structure for players that come out and report or speak about these issues. It is important for those that do not experience these situations to listen to those affected and understand.
Dream 7-a-side team? Name them
Ha! Being a defensive lynchpin, Tey's Magnificent 7 certainly reflects this, modesty in bucket loads too!
Hope you enjoyed it and are learning more about the people that make up the cloth of FC7!
留言