The night I played for City

It’s every football fan’s dream to get close to the players of the club they support. CRAIG JONES got to make this a reality when he was the ‘DJ’ at the launch of Manchester City’s new club shop. . .

I’M sitting in the office on a drizzly Thursday morning with a million and one things to do.

It’s fair to say I’m in need of a pick-me-up. So, I do what anyone in my position would do – waste away the hours on Facebook. Flicking through the endless cringeworthy statuses (that I am all too guilty of writing myself) which included the usual ‘I can’t wait to finish work’, ‘I love my boyfriend sooooooo much’ and ‘I’m just off out for a loaf of bread’, all very intriguing stuff, I stumble across something of potential interest.

The official Manchester City page beckons me. It says: “Budding DJs wanted to cover the launch of our new club shop tonight.”

This is a calling. Being a City fan, I’m wobbling with excitement and, given the fact I consider myself something of a music buff, I decide to give it a go.

The rules are quite simple. All I have to do is submit three songs that I’d like to play. After much deliberation my choices are made – New Order’s Blue Monday, Julian Casablanca’s 11th Dimension and Editors’ Papillon. I’m convinced that a blend of a synthy Eighties alternative sound will be ideal for a shindig with Roberto Mancini and his boys.

A phone call comes and incredibly I’ve been selected to DJ the launch, I’m brimming with a smile that even the Cheshire Cat would be envious of. I then walk from desk to desk bragging to anyone who’ll listen what I’ll be doing this evening.

My friend Alexandra asks if she could accompany me to this glamorous event in the hope that she could snag herself a footballer husband.

She asks: “So Craig, who are the hottest players?”

Given my love for Carlos Tevez, I instantly blurt out the little Argentine bulldog’s name. Alex gives me a stern headshake of disapproval, of which Simon Cowell would be proud, and says: “Oh no Craig! Isn’t he the one with the massive scar?”


Obviously we look for different things in a man – I look for a goal scorer, and I dread to think what she looks for.

We arrive at the new CityStore on Market St, in the old HMV site across from Boots, startled by the view of a large blue moon rising.

We’re ushered to the entrance while having our snaps taken by photographers, who I hope believe me to be a footballer at the club. Given my ever-growing beer belly and the club’s alleged booze culture, maybe I could fit the bill perfectly.

Entering the store, there’s a space age parting of the ways when the moon splits in two allowing us to enter. I feel like we’re being taken on David Bowie’s space oddity and I begin to wonder if we’ll bump into Major Tom.


As we walk into the unknown, our entrance is greeted by rousing cheers from the Tannoy. I have to admit being cheered walking through a door is a fair old ego-boost and it eased my growing nerves before the impending DJ set.

The shop looks great – a bit like something from the film Tron. Lit in dark blue and full of mod-cons, we’re greeted by the event organiser who drags me from pillar to post.

Revealing that I’ll only be playing the three songs which I submitted (to be honest, I don’t mind as it gives me more time to schmooze with the City bigwigs), there then comes a trio of shocking bombshells.

The first is quite nice – all the drinks are complementary (not a bad start), secondly, the scarfed one, Roberto Mancini, will not be in attendance as he’s coming down tomorrow to officially open the store instead.

My heart is slightly broken at this point as I will admit I have a slight man-crush on the Italian stallion, who has an eye for knitwear.

But my spirits are raised by the fact Shaun Wright-Phillips and Micah Richards will be coming down later on.

The final revelation leaves me flabbergasted just as I’m told to jump behind the decks and get on with it.

The organiser says: “Just have a fiddle with the buttons – we are playing all the songs out of the main speakers anyway, so you don’t have to do anything, all you have to do is look convincing.”

It’s claimed, rather understandably, that the club couldn’t take a risk on whether I could DJ or not. Externally I’m nodding in agreement, but on the inside I’m having a diva-like strop.

Do they not know who I am? Do they not know of the ‘acclaimed’ radio show I did at uni or the many sets I’ve done in some of Manchester’s finest indie nightclubs?

My reputation didn’t precede me. In my head this is the biggest musical scandal since Milli Vanilli lip-synched or Cheryl’s latest mime on X Factor.

I jump behind the decks to begin a wooden acting master class that even Arnold Schwarzenegger would be embarrassed by. But as the sound of Bernard Sumner asking ‘How does it feel?’ rumbles around the shop’s basement floor I revel in my surroundings.

To my left I see the rather sophisticated shirt printing area that wouldn’t look out of place at a Kraftwerk gig and then directly in front of me I spy City’s Ambassador, the legendary Mike Summerbee, having a little dance to New Order.


At this point I start to amuse myself by switching the decks on and off wondering if anything will happen. Nothing does.

At the end of my set, Alex and I go grab a quick word with secret New Order fan Mike Summerbee. He speaks with great pride about the shop and says: “The store looks fresh, smart and modern; I think it epitomises the direction that the club is going.
“It just shows how Manchester City are growing as a force.”

We then get chatting about City’s current form and as an armchair fan I question the need of playing three holding midfielders at home. Summerbee, ever the gentleman, listens to my ramblings, which he’s probably heard a million times before. It becomes evident he’s keen to change the subject and he introduces us to the club’s CEO Gary Cook.

As we chat I’m desperate to ask about the infamous ‘bottler’ remark he aimed at Kaka when City expressed an interest in signing the Brazilian playmaker a few years back but don’t want to risk being frogmarched out of the joint.

The celebs keep rolling in and as we spot Micah Richards alone in the corner, we quickly hatch a plan, which is basically to use the girl as bait – Alex will ask for a photo and I’ll grab a few quotes about the football.

The plan goes perfectly. Alex gets a snapshot with a potential suitor and I have a chit chat with a man who I spent a few boozy nights with in Portland this summer when I inadvertently bumped into the squad during the club’s pre-season tour of America.

Richards recognises me, so there was actually no need for our convert 007-style plan. We chat about the good old days for a while before we get his thoughts on the new shop.

He raves: “It’s great, I’ve been to the old store in the Arndale Centre and this is a big improvement, I can’t believe how big it is. I think the fans will love it, they deserve the best on and off the field.”

I’m happy to get the quotes but as a fan I’m eager to get some juicy gossip about the club, I gently probe about the reported bust-ups between Mancini and the players but Richards leaps to the Italian’s defence. He explains: “I know a lot has been made about the recent results and our style of play, but I think people need to take a reality check and see that we are actually still fourth in the table.

“Everybody is saying we’re in decline and much has been said about the manager but he’s genuinely doing a good job and it is obvious the club is going in the right direction.”

The free alcohol must be running low as we’re now only being given halves of lager. Richards is called to the decks to join team-mate Shaun Wright-Phillips in providing the music. I jealously notice they get to actually DJ, no miming for millionaires, but at this point my attention has turned to other things.

After supping a fair bit, conversation between myself and Alex becomes very disjointed (I have the dictaphone recordings to prove it). She’s insistent on finding a waitress so she can grab another glass of wine while I realise that I don’t have this year’s kit and consider sneaking out with one of the jerseys displayed on the racks. I try to justify my intended actions by thinking, ‘The guys who own us are billionaires, they aren’t going to miss a shirt’.

At this point, I’d like to clarify I didn’t steal anything, what a horrible faux pas that would have been, but we consider this a good point to head towards the exits for the after show-party at The Living Room where City fans, Doves, would be performing. Before leaving I get a quick photo on the stage with Shauny, he has no option in the matter, as the little man is basically propping me up I’m in such an inebriated state. Although from the picture Shaun looks a little worse for wear, too.


We leave, the night has been amazing and I just can’t believe my luck that I got to be part of such a big event with the club I love. I have the sound of Andy Gray in my ears rumbling out the old footballing cliché: ‘you can’t win a raffle if you don’t buy a ticket’. Too true Andy, take a bow son.

Richards backs Mancini

Manchester City’s players leapt to the defence of Roberto Mancini ahead of the club’s crunch match with Fulham on Sunday.

The blues manager has recently received criticism following dour 0-0 draws at home to arch-rivals Manchester United and Birmingham City.

Right-back, Micah Richards, 22, has defended the Italian tactician and claims the club is heading in the right direction.

He said: “I know a lot has been made about the recent results but I think people need to take a reality check and see that we are actually still fourth in the table.

“Everybody is saying we’re in decline and much has been said about the manager but he’s genuinely doing a good job and it is obvious the club is going In the right direction.”

Richards believes that City are still firmly in this season’s battle for the Premier League title.

He said: “It’s hard to write anyone off at the moment as so many teams are dropping points, look at Chelsea they were well clear a few weeks ago, now they are in a little bit of trouble but you don’t hear anyone getting on Carlo Ancelotti’s back.

“I think everyone should just give Roberto Mancini the time he deserves.”

This weekend City travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham at 4pm on Sunday and there is undoubtedly going to be an extra bit of spice to the game.

It’ll be the first time former manager Mark Hughes will face the blues since he unceremoniously left the club nearly 12 months ago, despite City having only lost twice in the Premier League at that point.

Richards said: “It will be nice to see Mark Hughes again although our main focus is getting the victory. It was well documented we didn’t always see eye-to-eye but I understand that he just wanted the best for me.

“I think much will be made of the fact that Hughes will be eager for a win but Fulham is always a tough place to go anyway, we’re not kidding ourselves.”

England international, Richards, believes that if City play at their best they’ll have no trouble bringing three points home from the capitol.

The defender also thinks the club are well on course to reach their pre-season target of Champions League qualification.

He said: “At the beginning of the season we decided that reaching the Champions League was our minimum goal, we are still well positioned to do that.

“Whether that’s in first, second, third or fourth place I’m not sure but we’ll definitely get there, with ease.”

Team-mate Shaun Wright-Phillips agrees with Richards and feels that City are being harshly treated.

Wright-Phillips, 29, said: “Since we got taken over the press attention has been immense and understandably if things go wrong journalists are keen to get on our backs.

“We are a great side full of world class players and we have a manager who’s won a lot over his career in Italy, we are really well equipped to meet our objectives.”

Meanwhile, fans favourite, Wright-Phillips, has spoke of his frustrations of not being able to cement a place in City’s starting eleven.

The winger has only made six appearances this season in all competitions and this has led to speculation over his long-term future.

He explained: “I’ve always said I want to finish my English football career with City but yes in the short term future I would possibly consider a loan move but I certainly don’t want to leave permanently.”

Wright-Phillips faces stiff competition for a starting spot from England stars Adam Johnson, James Milner and Spanish World Cup winner David Silva.

Recently, much has been made about City’s players having rows with manager, Roberto Mancini, as the former Inter Milan boss is reported to have had bust-ups with Emmanuel Adebayor, Adam Johnson and talisman Carlos Tevez among others.

Wright-Phillips said: “I’m not one to criticise managers, I know what Mancini wants from me and I’m just going to concentrate on showing him I deserve a place in the team.”

The former Chelsea star said he couldn’t describe how difficult he finds not playing but vowed to make his mark.

He said: “I know what I am capable of for club and country so I just have to be patient.”

Former City star Mike Summerbee, now an ambassador for the club has told Wright-Phillips to keep working hard and he’ll get his reward.

Summberbee, 67, said: “Everyone at the club loves Shaun and nobody wants to see him leave, If he applies himself I’m sure he’ll get the games he deserves.”

Summerbee also called for Mancini to be given more respect and said has faith in him.

He said: “Rome wasn’t built in a day and I feel sorry for Roberto, it is clear he has passion for the job and I’d ask for people to give him a break.

“There’s a long way to go and I’m sure we’ll be there or there abouts come May.”

Blue moon rises on Market Street

The blue moon rose on Market Street when Manchester City Football Club opened their brand new flagship store on Friday.

The current CityStore in the Arndale Centre will be replaced with a state-of-the-art retail outlet, 420% larger in comparison.

Shoppers will enjoy much more choice, with exciting new products including the latest fashion collections, accessories and gifts.

This follows a £1 million investment from the club’s new retail partner, Kitbag, who have also upgraded the ordering facility, offering a multi-channel service which allows fans to have products delivered anywhere in the world.

Garry Cook, CEO of MCFC, explained that they were very proud of their old store, but admitted they could do a little bit better.

“Eighteen months ago we asked if we could improve the current store,” he said.

“And I think this started to depict the journey of this football club because we’re relentlessly seeking to get better.”

The club and official kit partner, Umbro, have lots of events lined-up in the forthcoming months such as bands performing live, product launches and fashion shows taking place in the shop.

“What you see is not a club shop, what you see is a Manchester City retail experience with a difference,” Mr Cook added.

“This football club is a great football club and it sits at the heart of this city, just as our new store does.”

Mr Cook said that the club hopes their new store will be a home away from home, offering the complete stadium experience for supporters.

Managing Director of Kitbag, Ray Evans, said: “When discussing plans and aspirations for this shop, we quickly realised only the best could ever be considered for Manchester City Football Club.”

And with the store boasting a unique shirt printing laboratory and an innovative and sophisticated interior, their aspirations seem to have materialised.

“We want to offer fans a bit of that magic they experience at the stadium when they walk through the door,” he added.

“I am going to make a bold statement now and say that this is, without a doubt, the best football club store in this country.”

At the launch party of the store on Thursday many agreed.

One of them was City player, Micah Richards. He said: “It’s great, I’ve been to the old store in the Arndale Centre and this is a big improvement, I can’t believe how big it is.

“I think the fans will love it, they deserve the best on and off the field.”

Richards was joined by team-mate, Shaun Wright-Phillips, where they showed their support by djing at the event.

The final seal of approval came from former MCFC player and club ambassador, Mike Summerbee.

He said: “The store looks fresh, smart and modern; I think it epitomises the direction that the club is going.

“It just shows how Manchester City are growing as a force.”

City roll out the blue carpet

Manchester City last night rolled out the blue carpet for the premiere of the club’s new film, Blue Moon Rising, at the Printworks.

Roberto Mancini and his squad put dreams of Premier League domination on hold for one evening to attend the glittering event held at the Odeon Cinema.

Producer Nick London said he felt it was vital for the film to get across the uniqueness of being a City fan.

He said: “This is a film seen through the eyes of a group of City fans and what it means to love a football club. We really wanted to present that well known self-deprecating humour of a Manchester City fan.

“I’m very confident that all football supporters can strongly relate to these guys, no matter who they support.”

Soap stars Michelle Keegan and Jorgie Porter were also in attendance, helping to add a little glamour to the occasion, although the show was inevitably stolen by lifelong blues fan Noel Gallagher.

The former Oasis guitarist signed autographs and posed for pictures with waiting fans.

Whilst the Gallagher brother makes frequent appearances in the behind-the-scenes documentary, the film’s real stars are five diehard City fans from Stockport who travel home and away to matches in a rusting 1992 Renault Espace, which goes by the name of Helios.

Directed by Bafta award winner Stewart Sugg, the film details City’s first full season following Sheikh Mansour’s £210m takeover of the club.

Sugg uses player interviews with stars such as Carlos Tevez, Emmanuel Adebayor and Gareth Barry combined with match action to capture City’s transformation from also-rans to potential title contenders.

City’s Commercial Director, David Pullan, said: “Blue Moon Rising reinforces Manchester City’s standing as the most fascinating story in the world of football.

“It will be a lasting testimony to one of the most exciting years in Manchester City’s history.”

The film focuses on the £100m City spent buying new players last season, the sacking of manager Mark Hughes, and the subsequent appointment of Roberto Mancini.

A few Manchester City fans were lucky enough to win tickets for the first screening of Blue Moon Rising and watch it with their idols.

City fan Greg Baker said: “Tonight’s been amazing. I thought the film was great. Last season had so many ups and downs, so it made the perfect film script.”

He jokingly added: “I just wish they’d left out those last minute defeats to United.”

Blue Moon Rising will be showing in selected North West cinemas for the next two weeks.

Buena Vista International are also considering screening the documentary in cinemas worldwide, so if a blue moon does rise over Hollywood, Helios maybe pulling up to a few premieres stateside.

2010 Mid-Season F1 Report

As the beautiful sunshine set on the streets of Valencia last weekend the 2010 Formula 1 Championship reached it’s halfway point. Now that Sebastian Vettel’s victorious champagne has been well and truly savoured it is worthwhile to see what we have learnt in the opening four months of the season.

By far the biggest story throughout winter testing was the ‘Will he? Won’t he?’ affair of Michael Schumacher’s return to the sport. After months of speculation the seven time World Champion announced news that left fans across the globe joyous, he was coming back and being reunited with Ross Brawn, the tactical genius who helped Schumacher win five World Championships at Ferrari. This was the most high profile, positive news that F1 had received in years and left fans drooling at the prospect of the master taking on the new breed, driving for the newly formed Mercedes GP.

Purists had hoped he’d gloriously return straight to the front of the field and secure an eighth world title. Whether these expectations were a little unrealistic, not many would have thought Schumacher’s comeback would be the struggle it has become with the former Ferrari man currently lingering ninth in the drivers standings with only thirty-four points. His team mate, Nico Rosberg has more than double the points of Schumacher and has pretty much outclassed his more illustrious countryman. Currently the prospect of Schumacher securing a podium seems out of the depths of reality, let alone him mounting a serious title challenge.

2010, has been the year of vicious team mate battles, long gone are the days of a team having a No.1 and No.2 driver. The proof of this can be seen throughout every top team this season; from the master out performed by the apprentice at Mercedes to the Brit World Champions of Mclaren. This level of competition has inevitably helped create an open title battle with the top five drivers in the standings separated by less than thirty points. This partnered with the reform of the points system for 2010 leaves much excitement promised for the remainder of the season and the potential twists we can enjoy.

Arguably, the fiercest in-team battle of the year has come from the Red Bull drivers. On Saturday afternoons Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber have been imperious gaining four pole positions each, from the nine races that have taken place, so far. Although on Sunday this impressive form hasn’t always been continued, partially due to the two driver’s competitive mentality. The obvious example of this was at the Turkey GP when the pair collided whilst leading one and two. Resulting in Vettel crashing out and Webber finishing 3rd behind the two Mclaren drivers. Red Bull Team Principal, Christian Horner, will be nervously twitching at the notion of his two driver’s bitter rivalry taking centre stage and costing them the world championship. In a similar fashion to Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso while racing for Mclaren in 2007, presenting the championship to Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen.

What’s for certain is, Christian Horner’s team will have to make their undoubted qualifying superiority count more often with the constantly improving Mclarens and Ferraris ready to stake their claim for the 2010 World championship title.

Next stop Silverstone, where Red Bull enjoyed a one/two finish last season.

Craig Jones

10 Things We Have Learnt At The 2010 World Cup, So Far

1. The synchronised dress code of the German management team is more than a little creepy. The sight of Jochem Loew and right hand man, Oliver Bierhoff trying their best to be down with the kids, by wearing matching ‘designer’ cardigans is the worst football fashion catastrophe since the Liverpool team’s sinister cream FA Cup Final suits from 1995. Yes, they really are that bad.

2. Just when you start to believe there aren’t any easy games left in International football, North Korea stumble into your life. World Cup 2010 has seen memorable shocks from New Zealand, Algeria, Serbia and Switzerland but the North Koreans have offered a welcome goal boost to the established order. Most notably, shipping seven goals against Portugal. Unsurprisingly, Kim Jong-Hun’s side fell at the group stages with a goal difference of minus eleven, after three matches.

3. Nigeria certainly know how to miss a sitter, surely it couldn’t get any worse than Chinedu Oybuke’s guilt edge miss against Greece. Though, it certainly did when Yakubu completely missed the onion bag from no more than 2 yards out verses South Korea with an open goal beckoning. That has to be the worst ever miss recorded on film, even worse than Ronny Rosenthal’s.

4. Gold can actually rust, following a nightmare campaign which included a player sent home, a fitness coach resigning and their Football Federation President in tears, It would seem France’s golden generation are now dead and buried. Now that they have flown home in shame on their economy flights the autopsy continues as striker Thierry Henry has met with the country’s President, Nicolas Sarkozy to discuss the team’s abysmal showing.

5. If a team has the attacking talent of Lionel Messi, Gonazlo Higuain, Ángel Di Maria, Carlos Tevez and Diego Milito (The list could continue) it really doesn’t matter who manages them. After an indifferent qualification campaign, some predicted Argentina would struggle in South Africa although they have done everything but. Sweeping aside all in their group, under the stewardship of the Argentine equivalent of Mike Bassett, in the form of the legendary, Diego Maradona, who makes up for his lack of tactical ability with his unrivalled charisma. After his teams victory over South Korea the handball specialist responded to quips that he was too friendly towards his players by saying: “I prefer women. I have a girlfriend Veronica who is blonde and 31.”


6. Inevitably, the ball gets criticised. Adidas’ Jabulani football has joined a long line of World Cup tournament balls that have been slammed for being awkward to use. The problem with this year’s ball is that it apparently ‘just travels funny in the air’ well if anyone saw the 50 yard ball Glen Johnson played to Wayne Rooney against Slovenia or either of the two free kicks Japan scored verses Denmark the Jabulani ball doesn’t seem all that bad.

7. Like always, just as keen as the English press are to build the national team up, they’re even more eager to knock them down. If you believed the newspapers prior to the tournament, World Cup 2010 was England’s best chance to conquer the world since our victory in 1966. The odd draw later and it’s all change, Fabio Capello, once billed as a potential messiah became a senile old Italian, who’d forgotten he’d given Joe Cole a plane ticket. The worst aspect of the whole affair had to be when tabloid favourite, John Terry acknowledged the concerns raised by the press but was then called a traitor for agreeing with what they had been preaching. Gosh you’d think he’d slept with Capello’s wife or something, oh wait…maybe that was the ‘big mistake’ Fabio has been talking about. Well one thing is for certain, Capello will do more than just refuse a handshake, if this rumour is true.

8. Vuvuzelas are rather annoying, this World Cup has been devoid of chanting from the terrace but at least it has gained a lot of South African identity which ultimately makes tournaments memorable, this is thanks in no small part to those noisy horns. Plus, an avid Formula One fan can hardly criticise the noise made by a few plastic horns. A F1 car roaming the streets of Monaco is anything but quiet.

9. The BBC have pulled a masterstroke by signing 781 time Champions League Winner, Clarence Seedorf, who has complimented their already strong team of pundits. Seedorf is refreshing, articulate and not afraid of offering an opinion, Seedorf’s view of Christiano Ronaldo: “He’s one of the best contemporary footballers but he’ll never be an all time great.” Clarence has settled well into the Beeb’s tried and tested line-up whose coverage has also received a shot in the arm with Lee Dixon coming of age at the tournament. The only weak link is the monotones of the Monobrowed, Martin Keown who revealed to the world mid-commentary: “It’s a horrible job, I don’t think people at home appreciate how cold it actually is out here, plus we have to stay up to midnight and get up at 7am.” If you fancy quitting Martin, they’ll be a fair few million people queuing up to get behind the microphone, they‘d all do a better job of it too.

10. Life just goes on hold during the World Cup. Throughout the group stages we’ve had the appetiser of supping our teeth into three matches a day and now the main course of our footballing feast commences, the knockouts. Ah bliss!

10 Things We Learnt At RockNess

Here are 10 things we learnt from this year’s RockNess festival:

1. Next year make sure you travel to Scotland a day early and venture to the Go North event in Inverness on the Thursday night prior to RockNess. This year the town was invaded by 45 acts performing in 10 venues, all aspiring to be the next big thing.

2. If you see Crystal Castles front woman, Alice Glass roaming on to the main stage grasping a bottle of whisky, it would be advised to gently persuade her to leave it behind. As it may prevent a few injuries.

3. Do not be careless enough to leave a very tacky 70’s style green and white chair on display at the camp site while you’re off enjoying the festival, as something that stylish will inevitably get stolen.

4. Lightening can strike twice, fresh from clearing Inverness night club, Ironworks on Thursday evening Aberdeen rap duo Shy & DRS did exactly the same on Friday night in RockNess’ Go North tent. It is just unfortunate they failed to emulate all those other Aberdeen rap legends that have came before them.

5. Rob Green surely can not be England’s number 1 goalkeeper. Further to this, never watch England’s opening match of a World Cup campaign in the company of 300 Scotsmen, especially if the goalkeeper does have a mare. It can get a little frustrating, although a chant of ‘When’s your group game? When’s your group game?’ can momentarily quieten the jubilant tartan army, revelling in England’s failures.

6. The best thing about Dananananaykroyd is the name and even that wares thin pretty quickly.

7. Lycra was most certainly in at RockNess 2010, Britain’s Got Talent wannabes The Cuban Brothers wowed the main stage in an array of fluorescent outfits that left little to the imagination. Then comedian Chris Cox, stripped to a pair of stunning Lycra running shorts to conclude the encore to his act. This said, the most eye catching Lycra wearing artist had to be the silver clad sultry singer who performed with Leftfield. We assumed she must have been going to a fancy dress party as Barbarella, after the gig. I think she gave many a young man sweet dreams on Friday night.

8. If you’re a little nervous at the thought of proposing to that special person in your life, simply enlist the help of Hot Chip during their DJ set. The London band where more than obliging to stop the music and help a reveller pop the question to the woman of his dreams. If you’re wondering, of course she said yes.

9. Comedy definitely has a place at RockNess, this year’s new addition, the Howard’s End Pub was packed with heaps of merrymakers game for a laugh. Then on Sunday afternoon Kevin Bridges played to a crowd of around 5,000 in the Goldenvoice Arena reminiscing about the joys of 90’s childhood. Memories of Dave Benson Phillips helping make a child’s dream come true by gunging that hated school teacher brought the house down.

10. When The Strokes do go their separate ways, Julian Casablancas could easily take the lead role in the next Terminator film. As The Strokes reunited on Sunday night, Casablancas, dressed all in black leather and Blue Brothers style sunnies, gave piercing robotic stares to the 35,000 strong crowd, reminiscent of Arnie hunting down John Connor. Anyway RockNess, until next year hasta la vista, baby.




Craig Jones

RockNess Preview

Until 5 year ago the most notable attraction that resided in the sleepy valley of Loch Ness, was the much fabled monster. That was before Fat Boy Slim had the desire to take his Beach Party up north and show the people of Scotland just what they’d been missing out on.

Norman Cook’s vision became a reality and now the RockNess Festival returns this weekend to Clune Farm with it’s most eye catching line-up to date with The Strokes, Doves, Leftfield and Pendulum to name just a few all headlining. Accompanied, of course by Fat Boy Slim making his customary appearance at the festival he helped create.

Luke Pritchard, of the Kooks has revealed that The Strokes front man, Julian Casablancas is very excited to be performing at RockNess, Pritchard said: “I was at a Julian Casablancas gig recently and all he could talk about was how much he was looking forward to playing RockNess.” Which provided a slight bit jealously in Pritchard, whose band didn’t make the bill, he said: “I seriously wanted to do RockNess as I’d heard it is really cool surrounded by beautiful scenery.” There is always next year Luke.

RockNess initially began life primarily as a dance festival headlined by acts Fat Boy Slim, Audio Bullys and local boy Mylo but with each passing year the still somewhat fresh faced festival has seen it’s line-up follow a path of musical evolution.

This year there has been an influx of indie acts added to the bill, with the inclusion of Friendly Fires, Vampire Weekend and the afore mentioned appearance by The Strokes. RockNess organiser, Jim King is seemingly pleased that the festival has considerably more bands performing this year, he said: “We’re delighted with the RockNess line-up this year it’s the best we’ve had to date. We’re particularly looking forward to having some really great indie bands lined up with The Strokes, Doves, Ian Brown and many more big names performing.”

Further to RockNess having a different sound this year, organisers have taken a leaf out of the Leeds and Reading festival’s book by introducing a live comedy venue. The Howard’s End Pub will be staging stand-up gigs throughout the weekend, the gigs will be compared by cult icon Howard Marks.

Kevin Bridges described as ‘the best Scottish stand up of his generation’ will headlining RockNess’ latest venture. The Glaswegian will be joined at Howard’s End by an array of raising comedic talent including Scottish Comedian of The Year, Scott Agnew supported by Rob Heeney and Canadian Marty McLean as part of RockNess’ inaugural comedy line-up. Festival Director, Jim King is delighted RockNess can offer something over than music, he said: “We’re really excited to be introducing comedy at this year’s festival in Howard Marks’ Pub. The talent we have is some of the best on the circuit and it will bring a fantastic new dimension to what is going to be our best RockNess yet.”

RockNess takes place from June 11th to 13th remaining tickets are available now priced £149, for the weekend. For full details, visit the official website www.rockness.co.uk

Craig Jones

10 Bands to watch at RockNess

RockNess described as ‘the most beautiful festival in the world’ returns this weekend, to the picturesque banks of Loch Ness. Here are the monster acts intent on stealing the show.

10. Kevin Bridges - The Glaswegian comedian heralded as ‘the best Scottish stand-up of his generation’ headlines the festival’s new comedy venue, Howard’s End Pub. Bridges will be performing all weekend along with a host of up and coming stand-up talent, for those game for a laugh.

9. Zane Lowe & Annie Mac - Radio 1 DJs, Lowe and Mac will be performing at the Goldenvoice Arena on Saturday night. Mac, is extremely looking forward to her set, she said: “I’m very excited to take Annie Mac Presents up to RockNess, it’s a great chance for everyone to get a little merry drinking cider in the fields.”

8. Grandmaster Flash - The hip hop pioneer brings his unique cutting and mixing DJ style to the festival. The Bronx legend will be residing at the Rizla Arena all weekend, if anyone wants to get a feel of the old skool New York City scene, go down and let the master show you how it’s done.

7. Friendly Fires - The Mercury Prize nominated band from St Albans are taking a break from recording new material to play the main stage on the opening night of the festival. Rumour has it, the quartet are about to embark on a collaboration with Dappy from N-Dubz.

6. Ian Brown - The former Stone Roses front man headlines the main stage on Saturday evening, the same night England kick off their World Cup campaign against the USA. Football fan, Brown, surprisingly isn’t too concerned about missing the match, he admitted: “I’ve never really backed England in anything, if I am being honest. My advice is back Brazil from the start and you’ll be alright. He continued, by revealing his trademark loyalty to Manchester, Brown said: “Now if there was a Republic of Mancunia team playing on Saturday, I’d cancel the gig.” For those wishing to catch the footy, there will be a large screen showing all the weekend’s matches in Charlie’s Bar, on site.

5. Vampire Weekend - Fresh from playing the Coachella festival in California, Ezra Koenig and the rest of the four piece are flying to Scotland for RockNess’ big finale. The laid back New York rockers will be playing highlights from their first album, such as A-Punk and Oxford Comma while giving the UK a taste of their critically acclaimed second album, Contra.

4. Doves - Currently touring their latest album, Kingdom of Rust, the stalwarts of the Manchester music scene will also help draw the festival to a close. They are certain to create a feel good atmosphere with their signature melodies. A rendition of Pounding will prove to be the perfect soundtrack on a beautiful summer’s evening (Weather permitting, of course).

3. Fat Boy Slim - It was one, Norman Cook, who originally created the concept of RockNess and he ‘returns to his spiritual home’ on Friday night to headline the main stage, again. Four years after opening the festival in 2006, Cook holds RockNess close to his heart and he never fails to bring the atmosphere of his Brighton Beach Party to Loch Ness.

2. Blondie - 64-year-old Debbie Harry (yes 64) leads the new wave band into their first RockNess appearance. The American icons will add even more quality to the festival’s closing night, expect a retro rebellious set that will draw the 35,000 strong crowd into a frenzy of synth and attitude reminiscent of the early 80’s.

1. The Strokes - Julian Casablancas & co put their solo projects to one side, reuniting to storm the Sunday evening main stage and bring RockNess to a close. The New Yorkers, playing their first UK festival since 2006, will be accompanied by Blondie, Doves and Vampire Weekend making the main stage such an attractive prospect. Our advice is get down there early, find a good position and prepare for an evening of great music. Plus who knows, you might catch a glimpse of the Loch Ness monster as the sunsets.


RockNess will take place at Clune Farm, Inverness from June 11th to 13th. Go to the website for full listings and news.

Craig Jones

Back from the brink of self destruction - Robert Downey Jr opens up about his life that reads more like a Hollywood script than normality. Craig Jones writes.

Rewind 25 years to a time of shoulder pads, synth music and Timmy Mallet, a time when laughter would have greeted the suggestion that 1980’s wild child, Robert Downey Jr, would one day become a settled family man with a starring role in a Hollywood movie franchise. Although in 2010, he is that guy, but to become this person the Iron Man-in-waiting has had to prove his iron will to overcome a life-long drug addiction that had blighted his career and left him unemployable.

Downey Jr can currently be seen on the silver screen, heroically defending the world in Iron Man 2 but in stark contrast to his cinematic persona, Robert, has spent much of his life the villain. In the 1980’s, he was a lovable hell raiser, part of the in-famous Brat Pack, but later in the 1990’s his antics turned much more serious with Downey Jr being frequently arrested for drugs offences and once even carrying a firearm under the influence, which resulted in him later spending time in prison.

The quick witted Downey Jr opens the door to his newly acquired home in California’s Venice Beach with the welcome: “I thought you guys from the clinic had forgot to come and check if I was still going clean this month.” Dressed in a casual grey Armani suit with the top buttons of his black shirt undone, accompanied with his trademark Tony Stark beard, he leads the way around his metallic spiral staircase up to the roof.

The 45-year-old reaches the summit like an explorer conquering his native Rocky Mountains, he sits down on a rickety wooden deck chair clenching a glass of freshly squeezed OJ, taking a breath, while the reflection of the mesmerising evening sunset glistens into his Ray Bans and he begins to discuss his past: “I was crazy when I first started getting big roles, I’d blow my fee on the lifestyle but do I regret it? How can I? It’s all part of the journey that has made me who I am today.” He continues and raises a cheeky, youthful smile as reminisces about his childhood: “Though it was very unlikely I was ever going to turn out normal after the upbringing I had.”

Downey Jr was born into a performing family, his Mother, Elsie, was an actress starring in many films directed by, Robert Downey Snr. At the age of 5, Downey Jr joined the family trade, voicing a puppy in his Father’s film, Pound. Downey Jr says: “Being born into that family I was only ever going to want to be an actor but my Dad didn’t shadow me from the dark side of the trade either.” It was Downey Snr, who introduced his son to the dark side, offering him marijuana at his 8th Birthday party, Downey Snr later said: “We thought it would be hypercritical to not have our kids participate in pot and stuff like that when we were doing it anyway.” As a result of his Father’s drug habits Downey Jr inadvertently struck a childhood friendship with Richard Hall, otherwise known as Moby, their parents would often socially take drugs together. Downey Jr and Moby remain close friends and often reminisce about the liberal parenting they experienced.

At the age of 13, Downey Jr’s parents divorced and he left his home of New York with his Father and moved to California. He attended Santa Monica College but dropped out at the age of 17. Downey Jr explains: “At that time in my life I just needed to get away from my Father and also I didn’t feel that I was ready for California. I needed to go home.” He returned to New York to chase his dream of becoming an actor, landing small parts in television shows, most notably on American institution, Saturday Night Live, but he still needed a part time job to support him. Many aspiring actors or actresses work as waiters or as barmen, Downey Jr chose petty crime, he laughs: “As I only wanted to be an actor I had no enthusiasm for a mediocre job in the mean time. So I probably did some shop lifting to get by, sorry let me remove probably, it’s not probable that I stole, I stole.” The always charming chancer Downey Jr, then jokes: “I did work for a time in a shoe shop, for which I was fired for stealing.”

In 1985, Downey Jr had earned notoriety in Hollywood’s Brat Pack, starring in John Hughes’ coming of age film, Weird Science. This was when the industry first got a glimpse of Robert’s rebellious nature, as rumour has it Downey Jr ruffled the feathers of some of his cast mates, in his own unique way, he explains: “Well some of the crew may tell you that on the set of Weird Science I broke into Kelly LeBrock’s trailer and defecated on the couch. As I apparently didn’t like her patronising the younger cast members, such as, myself.” He bursts into laughter, smiles and says: “Although that’s all a fabrication, a funny fabrication, but a fabrication none the less.”

Downey Jr’s questionable pranks turned sour, in the 1990’s, as Robert swapped the silver screen for Court TV. He was arrested in 1996, for possession of heroin, cocaine and an unloaded .357 Magnum handgun, while speeding down Sunset Boulevard. At this time, he had a season ticket to court, following frequent arrests for drugs offences. Downey Jr, ever the optimist, looks out upon the horizon focusing on the ripples disappearing along the majestic blue sea and says: “You could say I’ve been lucky, following my frequent appearances on Court TV, I found a new audience rather than those who just watched my movies.”

That was probably fortunate as Downey Jr went on to spend a substantial amount of time in the acting wilderness as the law tired of his appearances in court. In 1997, he spent 4 months in the Los Angeles County Jail and his persistent reckless behaviour resulted in him being sentenced to a three year prison term at the California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility in 1999. Now having made it through the other side Robert has encouraged fellow stars suffering from substance abuse to seek therapy. He reveals: “Therapy is great, it just works, you go in, sit down and go, ‘It’s all his fault!’ And then you are broken down from there. Around 10 years ago I fell apart and now I feel fine.”

After spending nearly a year in the California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility, Robert was given early release after the positive progress he had made during therapy. His career also looked to be back on track, with Downey Jr landing a role in the hit television series Ally McBeal, playing the new love interest to Calisla Flockhart’s title character. Downey Jr earned critical acclaim and won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in a Mini Series or TV Film, but things weren’t as merry as they seemed, Robert, removes his sunglasses and speaks frankly about his belief that his performance in the series was overrated: “Right, I’m going to be honest with you, I’d been released from rehab, far too early, I wasn’t clean. If anything that was my lowest point in terms of addictions. At that stage, I didn’t give a fuck whether I acted or not and to be honest, I don’t recall much of Ally McBeal.” Downey Jr was arrested three times while working on the show and the third occasion was the final straw, for the execs, who had his character written out, despite his appearances resurrecting the failing series.

Robert returned to rehab on his own accord and in, 2001, he was officially clean, his first job post-rehab was in, August of that year, lip-syncing the vocals on the Elton John music video, “I Want Love” . Robert received the gift of love soon after, on the set, of the 2003 film, Gothika, where he met his wife, Susan. Robert has a glee-like grin on his chiseled face, as he begins talking about his wife, then the woman herself comes out on to the roof to topping-up the now empty glasses while offering some of Robert’s favourite cupcakes (Which he gives a light-hearted frown and objection to).

What remains of the day’s sunlight is drawn towards 36-year-old, Susan, as if emphasising, her messiah-like role in putting Robert’s life back on the straight and narrow. Susan, unofficially known in Hollywood as The Miracle That Saved Robert Downey Jr ruffles her husband’s soft wavy black hair and explains her first impressions of the reformed drug addict, she says: “The main thing I remember about meeting him, was thinking, how strange he was.” Robert nods in acceptance, as his wife continues: “He’s completely eccentric but grounded. He’s someone who has lived so much yet has almost a Peter Pan kind of never-grow-up quality.”

Once married, the couple started their own film production agency, that allows them to often work together, most recently they worked on Guy Ritchie's
Sherlock Holmes. Susan laughs, as she issues a weighted threat: “It allows me to keep an eye on him. As I have only once gone to his Dark Side and seen Darth Vader, never again can Bob be that person.” Well they say behind every Iron Man there is a strong Iron Woman, Downey Jr covers his face as he shuffles uncomfortably in his deck chair, pauses, changing the subject: “So, should we talk about my Oscar nomination for Tropic Thunder?” Susan, sees this as a prompt to leave, pulling her tongue out at her husband, chuckling: “You do that dear.”

The film, Tropic Thunder, signified Downey Jr’s return to form, he received an Oscar nomination for his controversial role, playing method actor, Kirk Lazuras, where Robert had to black himself up. He defends the role: “Look, it’s satire, some people get it and others don’t but, hey I got an Oscar nomination.” He certainly did, losing in the category, Best Supporting Actor, to the deceased, Heath Ledger, for his role in The Dark Knight. Downey Jr, star of the Marvel comic book franchise Iron Man, praises Ledger’s performance but felt the film took itself far too seriously, he vents: “Lets get this right, Heath did an awesome job as The Joker role but the movie it’s self, well you’d need a diploma from Harvard to get the plot. I’m like, this is so fucking smart and high brow, I’m obviously just too stupid for that.” Before, stoking the flames of the superhero fire further, adding: “Batman’s just a cry baby anyway, fuck him and fuck DC comics.”

So, it’s fair to say, we won’t be seeing Playboy Billionaires Bruce Wayne and Tony Stark sharing the big screen any time soon, unless it’s the ultimate comic book hero grudge match, perhaps. Playing a superhero has finally made, Downey Jr, cool in the eyes of his 16-year-old son, Indio and his peers. Indio is a child from Downey Jr’s ill-fated marriage to actress, Deborah Falconer. Robert feels, he might not be as liberal a Father as Downey Snr, but Jr is by no means conservative, Indio, was recently studying the Renaissance and Iron Dad, decided a jaunt to Italy was in order, for Father and son. Downey Jr glows with pride, as he emotes: “He had to do an end of year project on the Renaissance, I had some free time, so I thought what the hell? I’ll take him to Italy! We visited Venice, Florence and Rome, it was unbelievably cool, man.” He compares himself to Downey Snr, explaining: “I might not have the same idea of fun as my pop but at the end I did let Indio off the chain a little to party.” Maybe young Indio is his Iron Dad’s son after all.

As the dark descends over the Southern Californian beach, Robert, begins to offer a refreshing opinion on where his acting profile currently stands, Downey Jr says: “I think you end up doing the stuff you were supposed to do at the time you were supposed to, I certainly have.” The rebellious New York boy has become a Californian man, finally settled, with Iron Man and Sherlock Holmes sequels coming in the not too distant future, Downey Jr, talking with his new found maturity looks up towards the stars twinkling in the night sky and concludes: “The lesson I have learnt in life is that you can make mistakes but be forgiven by the people that matter.”

Paul Gerrard magazine feature

Many would find a life watching the tide drift away from a golden Hawaiian beach, surrounded by the crystal clear ocean to be the dream ticket but last July this wasn’t the case for one footballer longing for a club. Following his release by Sheffield United last summer, the career of former Premier League goalkeeper, Paul Gerrard had come to something of a crossroads. As at the age of 36, he was left to wonder whether his playing days were over and if so, what the future had in store for the former youth International colleague of David Beckham.

To take his mind off the prospect that his career was potentially over, Gerrard whisked his wife and two children away to exotic climbs to await the next move. One idyllic afternoon whilst strolling down the seafront clenching a cornetto in one hand and an ice cold orange juice in the other, Gerrard’s mobile phone rang. Calling from England was former Liverpool player Gary Albett, now manager of Stockport County, who had an interesting proposition for the shot stopper.

“The call from Gary came out of the blue. I’d had a few offers on the table but County just stood out from the rest.” Explained Gerrard who went into detail about the unique opportunity he’d been presented with, he said: “Gary wanted me to coach the goalkeepers at the club but also provide cover if Owain is unavailable for whatever reason. Doing both roles is a perfect scenario for me, I can concentrate on developing as a coach but I do keep myself fit for when I’m needed.”

Today Gerrard finds himself in less enviable surroundings, swapping the beach for Stockport County’s Manor Farm training ground. Instead of a relaxed kick around basking in the tropical sunshine Paul has the more serious task of putting County’s goalkeeper Owain Fon Williams through his paces in preparation for their upcoming match, on this overcast morning in the north west.

Gerrard has taken to his new job with relative ease but admits it was an odd transition at first, he said: “Obviously it’s taken a bit of getting used to as I’ve been a footballer for nearly 20 years and to move away from that has been strange. I do love the coaching though so I’m pretty happy all in all.”

The rookie coach has been thrown in at the deep end with County struggling on and off the pitch. The club are down at the foot of the table with relegation to League 2 looking likely and worse their long term future still looks precarious after they went into administration at the end of last season. Paul, a former youth International team mate of David Beckham at youth level deserves great praise for the way he has adjusted to the modest life of League 1, as it’s hard to imagine Becks would have the golden balls to attempt what Gerrard’s doing.

Understandably following the difficult 18 months county have suffered their fans are unnerved but Gerrard assures them County’s players are 100% focused on staying up, he reassures that: “Everyone is in good spirits, of course it has been a difficult season because of results, administration and a few other things. The lads have just knuckled down and not thought about the off-field stuff. There are rumours of a potential takeover but we don’t think about that. The financial aspects will sort themselves out in due course. We just need to win football matches.”

As a player, Gerrard began his career a stones throw away from his Heywood home with North West club Oldham Athletic, he was given his Premiership debut by Manager Joe Royle at the tender age of 19. For this, Paul still holds Royle in high esteem, he reminisces: “Joe believed in me so much and gave me the chance I craved, even at such a young age. For that I’ll always be thankful.” The keeper impressed between the sticks for the Latics claiming the No.1 shirt as his own. Catching the eye of the England Under 21s management, where he won a total of 18 caps at youth level and was tipped by pundits for potential greatness. Playing with future stars such as David Beckham, Gary Neville, Sol Campbell, Jamie Redknapp, Darren Anderton, Robbie Fowler and Andy Cole amongst others.

Gerrard’s mentor Joe Royle later moved to pastures new, leaving Oldham Athletic to become manager of Everton. Royle swooped to pry his England protégé away from Boundary Park with a bid of £1million in July 1996. Gerrard had no hesitations in making the move to Goodison Park but this left him with the unenviable task of displacing the club’s No.1 and cult hero, Neville Southall.

Gerrard admits: “I was probably a bit naïve when I moved to Everton as I went there hoping, I’d get in the team straight away, but at the time Nev was one of the best keepers in the world.” Due to a lack of football and coming to terms with the size of the club, Gerrard struggled to initially settle following his transfer, he concedes: “In that period you get struck by how much of a massive club it is and things play on your mind.”

Paul’s chance finally came as a half time substitute, in Everton’s 7-1 mauling of Southampton and towards the end of the 1996/97 season he began to snatch the jersey away from the long established Southall. Once Gerrard had cemented himself in the first team Southall quickly exited Goodison Park, it is clear Paul has great admiration for the Welsh stopper, who he describes as: “A big influence at the club, it was odd displacing him as he’d been Mr. Everton and rightfully so, as he was a cracking keeper. It was just a pity he didn’t stay longer to give me a bit more guidance.”

It was when Gerrard’s one time mentor, Joe Royle left Everton that the keeper’s reputation grew in stature under the club’s new manager, Walter Smith. He has considerable respect for the role that the Scotsman played In progressing his career at the club, he said: “Walter really got behind me and gave me a very good run in the side at Everton. He gave me the self-confidence to believe, I was good enough.”

Smith’s faith paid off as Gerrard posted, impressive display after impressive display and rumours grew of a potential England call up for the former Under 21 keeper. Who, had always dreamt of emulating his childhood hero, Peter Shilton, Paul said: “I was in good form and when you’re playing well in the top league you hope that phone call will come. Everton’s Goalkeeping coach, Chris Woods had mentioned that Ray Clemence (England’s Goalkeeping coach) had regularly come to watch me and there was talk of me making the squad.”

Unfortunately the telephone never rang, because Gerrard began to make uncharacteristic mistakes in the Everton goal. He spoke frankly of the pressure a goalkeeper faces when they’re struggling for confidence, he admits: “Making a high profile mistake is a difficult pill to swallow, especially as a young goalkeeper. Where you’re still learning, trying to establish a career and it’s a difficult thing to overcome. When you have dropped a rick it always eats away at you and getting through the 90 minutes does become an uphill task.”

As Gerrard’s England dream never materialised and his club form became indifferent, Everton bolstered the ranks. Signing Norwegian keeper Thomas Myhre and young stopper Steve Simonsen, resulting in seasons of inconsistency for the starting spot, with all three being used in a rotation system. Paul endured a frustrating time watching from the sidelines and spoke of his desire to get back into the team, he said: “There was a rivalry in place between us, it’s like that at any club. When someone is in your position you don’t want them to do well.” While reflecting on the burning desire he had to regain his position, he portrays true professionalism, he states: “Of course you want your team to do well but just for the other keeper to make a few mistakes. So you can get back in the team without costing the club any points, anyone that says differently is a liar.”

At this time England’s management looked elsewhere and Paul’s prospects faded, a regret that still burns deep in him today, he reflects: “I was so focused on making that next step but sadly it never happened, I believed I was ready and it is certainly a disappointment. I’ve thought about that a lot, even now.”

Despite recalling his regret the 6ft 2in tall figure, dressed in a tracksuit emblazoned with the letters PG, isn’t afraid to offer his tips on who should be England’s No.1 out in South Africa at this Summer’s World Cup, he admits: “If I’m honest there is no one that stands out a mile. David James is a good goalkeeper but when he makes a mistake it’s too highlighted. Robert Green has come in and done well, right now I’d have to say Green as he’s Mr.Consistent.” He also believes the country are in safe hands for the future and views Joe Hart as a long term No.1, he praised: “For a young lad nothing fazes him, he’s done very well at Birmingham. I was slightly surprised Capello didn’t give him 45 minutes against Egypt. I do hope Ben Foster can comeback stronger too, as his confidence has taken a kicking this season.”

In 2004, following loan spells at Ispwich Town, Sheffield United and Nottingham Forrest Gerrard’s contract with Everton expired. He signed permanently with Forrest and was voted Player of the Year in his first season with the twice European Cup winners. He was signed by Gary Megson and admits the two didn’t always see eye to eye, Gerrard said: “I had one or two run ins with Gary Megson at Forrest.” Although he points out there was no bad blood between the two men, he assured: “It was just the passion we both had, I never fell out with him, it was just a few arguments after games then it was over and done with, you move on.”

Paul left Forrest in 2006, following their relegation to League 1 and he is pleased to see his former side now doing well in the Championship, pushing for promotion. He said: “It’s fantastic, Forrest are a massive club, football needs the big clubs to be doing well. Look in our league, at the moment we have Southampton, Charlton and Leeds United, they’re all easily Premier League clubs. It’s nice to see Forrest pushing for promotion or the play-offs, I genuinely hope they do it, I really do.”

When Paul left Forrest he was reunited with a manager he’d worked under during a brief loan spell away from Everton, the often outspoken Neil Warnock, who re-signed the keeper to act as cover for Sheffield United’s No.1 Paddy Kenny. Gerrard enjoyed working under the controversial manager, having nothing but praise for his managerial style, he said: “From the outside Neil comes across as though he gets on people’s nervous but he’ll back all his players to the hills, which gives you confidence. I enjoyed my time under Neil, he’s a passionate guy and wants to win, there is not a thing wrong with that.”

During his time with the blades, Gerrard suffered first hand the affects of the Tevez/Mascherano affair at West Ham United. Sheffield United, relegated from the Premiership at the end of the 2006/07 season felt a sense of injustice towards the Hammers because of the manner in which they signed the Argentine stars and felt the East End club should have been docked points. On the final day of the season West Ham leapfrogged Sheffield United out of the relegation zone, which resulted with the in-famous bitter feud between the two clubs, that still runs deep today. Gerrard said: “It was a difficult time as the squad had worked ever so hard that season. Then the soap opera at West Ham didn’t help, as it was all illegal.”

He recounts the heartache of the club’s final day relegation, he said: “I remember Danny Webber going through one on one, hitting the post and the ball rolled right along the line. It’s weird to think if the ball had of rolled an inch or so back we’d have stayed up and the West Ham stuff would have been irrelevant, that’s football I guess.”

Now Gerrard’s looking to the future and believes despite all their problems Stockport County have a bright one, he thinks: “The club has massive potential, the facilities are all in place and Gary is a great manager. I honestly think this Is a Championship club in waiting, there is no reason why in 3-5 years time we can’t be there.” As for Paul, he’s concentrating on moving the club forward and making his new career a success, he said: “I just want to solely concentrate on being the best coach I can be. As for becoming a manager, that’s simply not for me, I’m going to stick to what I am good at. I’m very excited for what the future holds, I think It’ll be a fun ride.”

Michael Brown's views on refereeing

Following the increasing rate of footballers growling and snarling at match officials over recent seasons the FA finally decided it had to act. Introducing the much scrutinised Respect campaign, with half the season gone now seems an appropriate time to see what affect it’s had on the Premiership. Wigan Athletic’s rough and ready midfield general Michael Brown has been giving his view on the campaign’s influence.

Most will recall Ashley Cole’s infantile behaviour towards Referee Mike Riley during an encounter last season with Tottenham at White Hart Lane, which undoubtedly was a fitting example to emphasise the point referees needed help. A thought echoed by Brown who felt the attitude of some players towards match officials had become ridiculous and this season he has noticed a visible change of attitude on the pitch. He said: “The refs don’t get too many favours and it was about time we started giving them a little a bit of slack.”

Although this has ment the ever exuberant Brown has become a victim of this years stricter referring: “My reputation really doesn’t help, often after the first challenge I make I get booked.” That being said he is sympathetic to the role match officials have: “It’s a very difficult job and I wouldn’t like to do it. Admittedly in the past I’ve made bad challenges and not always been punished for them.” Highlighting a challenge he made on Ryan Giggs at Old Trafford whlist Brown was a Fulham player.

Brown 32, admits the Respect campaign has been a success since it’s introduction but in response he raises an interesting point that players seem to be losing respect. Citing the treatment of Arsenal’s Emanuel Eboue by his own fans, which Brown witnessed during Wigan’s away trip to Arsenal at the weekend. Which he described as: “Disgraceful scenes.” To such an extent that Brown, who was on the bench at the time considered intervening: “No professional deserves that kind of treatment and you really wouldn’t expect it from your own supporters. Everyone has their bad days and you don‘t need reminding, we know.” Suggesting that with the transfer window upon the horizon the Ivory Coast international may want to leave the club: “It wouldn’t surprise if come January 1st the lad went to see Mr. Wenger and handed in a transfer request and made a swift exit.”

Given that Brown mentioned the transfer window he was asked to respond to transfer speculation surrounding Wigan Athletic’s brighter lights. For some time the likes of Emile Heskey, Antonio Valencia and Wilson Palacios have been linked with moves away the club. As well as the club’s on-loan goal sensation Amir Zaki who has a long list of admirers, Brown jokingly said: “Let them all go! We can survive without them.” Which certainly defused the tension in the air and raised a few laughs. Then stressing: “Obviously those players are important to the team and it would be a great shame to lose them. If the worse happens then I’m sure the gaffer can find worthy replacements.”

Brown told his experience of watching Amir Zaki adapt to life in England and learning to speak English. “He’s a smart lad he’s picking up the language quite well.” Although it seems he can have the odd lapse: “When things aren’t going his away in training he can’t speak a word of English.”

Nearing the twilight of his career Brown is now looking towards the future, at what he calls: “Growing up after my career finishes.” He is currently thinking over what his next step is but for now is still completely focused on playing and helping his side push on up the Premier League table. “Everyday me and Kev Kilbane come into training just thankful that our bodies are still going.”

For the latest instalment in our series ‘A day with …’ we spend the day with up and coming Manchester club promoter Adam Crowley.

On a dull and dreary Thursday Manchester morning Adam Crowley patrols the living room of his Spectrum apartment anxiously peeking out onto the balcony to see if the December rain has stopped. He stands over looking the city like an emperor gazing down on his kingdom, returning from the cold, he proclaims: “I’m going to get absolutely soaked wet through handing out flyers.”

Crowley is the Manchester face of Place2be promotions and today is his busiest day of the week, the event. This evening he’ll be fronting the club night Romp which is held at the nightclub Boutique. The day hasn’t started well, other than the weather he’s also facing a ticketing crisis for this evening, he explains: “I’ve just had a call from our ticketing agency and they won’t be able to send our tickets across until tomorrow. It’s a bit of a nightmare really as I’ve got seventy people waiting for tickets.”

He is clearly upset but Adam can’t afford to waste time being annoyed, so he quickly rushes to his mobile phone and begins making alternative arrangements. Once that problem has been addressed Crowley picks up his laptop and says: “Right, now I need to update my Facebook.”

Crowley explains that social networking sites have become essential to club promoters, he believes: “Facebook is just invaluable, it’s free, allows me to assemble my contacts and most importantly they’re handpicked. So we know what we are getting.” Although he is sceptical of other promoters who take the site for granted, he says: “It’s getting saturated with people banging on about this night and that night. I mean of course you have to hype your own night but it‘s pathetic the way some go about their business, they may as well beg ‘please come to my night’ it reeks of desperation. We don’t do that with Romp.”

Every Thursday night Romp takes place simultaneously across three cites; Leeds (Chilli White), Manchester (Boutique) and Sheffield (DQ), Crowley says: “We want to build a brand and spread the word from city to city. It’s a lot easier than setting up three separate nights.” Place2be’s ‘stylish and sexy’ Romp only moved to Manchester in September which makes it the youngest of the three siblings, he enthusiastically explains: “This is my baby and I’m really proud of it and I think it helps that I was already a fan of the venue. Boutique really helps portray the image we’re after.”

This isn’t the first time Manchester has been home to a club night called Romp. In 2002 One central played host to a funky electro night called Romp but that was brought to an untimely halt soon after the tragic death of it’s promoter Nicholas King, who died in 2004 while holidaying in Thailand. This has caused some controversy in Crowley’s efforts to establish the Place2be night of the same name, he says: “Knowing of the circumstances surrounding One Central’s Romp I was very unsure about giving our night the same name. If I’m honest I didn’t want to:” Adam explains why they kept the name, he asserts: “We are trying our best to build a brand, it came down to the fact that our other Romp nights already existed in other cites.”

Place2be’s reluctance to give their Manchester night a different name didn’t sit well with some of the city’s promoters, Crowley reminisces: “During the Freshers Fair at MMU I did get some grief from a promoter about using the name Romp. He said I wasn’t respectful, I explained the situation and I think he understood.” Adam ensures that the public know the difference between the two nights, he stresses: “Whenever anyone asks if we are the same as the old Romp I explain we certainly aren’t as I’d hate to take credit for their previous success and steal their crowd.”

There is a break in the downpour so Crowley, dressed in a hoodie and tracksuit trousers emblazoned in the company name, jumps to his feet and says: “Lets get these flyers handed out.” Crowley leaves the mod-cons of his flash apartment long behind as he heads for the ‘student central’ that is Oxford Road. Some may not expect the person who fronts an event to actually get out on the street and do the dirty work but Crowley believes: “It gives me a chance to work my magic drawing people in and it also lets me keep an eye on the staff.”

Once Crowley arrives at ‘student central’ he uses his charismatic persona to cast a spell worthy of an almighty sorcerer, as despite the blistery conditions he still manages to grab the attention of passers by enthusiastically selling them his dream. As Adam is busy giving special attention to a young lady, Taran Jefferson, one of Place2be’s street team speaks of Crowley’s technique as a boss, he feels: “Adam is a really inspiring boss mainly because he has such belief in the night. Plus it’s clear for anyone to see he’s a confident guy.”

Adam calls time on his flyering escapades as he needs to return to Spectrum and find the suitable attire for an evening Romping. On the journey home wondering through Manchester’s festive European market he talks strictly about the importance of reliable employees, Crowley asserts: “As the majority of our staff are students we tend to encounter problems. It takes a long time to get a good team together, you’ll find a lot of time wasters In this game. Although I am pretty happy with our current team.” It would appear Crowley isn’t fearful of tempting the Gods of fate as no longer than a minute after he’d uttered those words he receives a phone call which doesn’t leave him in a good mood. A member of his hostess team has rang In ill but Crowley has his suspicions: “She says she isn’t well but if she’s out in town tonight I’ll know.” Understandably he isn’t happy but this is just another of the many hurdles he has become accustomed to in his career so he takes action and starts making more calls.

Back at Spectrum headquarters all is well, Crowley has found cover and now he’s in his element delving through his wardrobe trying to find that perfect outfit. The fashion conscious Crowley covers his bedroom in piles of clothing until he finds ‘it’, the outfit that captures the image of his night, he says: “A large part of my Thursday afternoon is spending a lot of time on my appearance as I need to be dappered up and look the part. I am fronting the night after all.” Adam lets an ounce of his vanity filter into his sentiment, as he says: “The public have an expectation to see Mr. December looking good.” He is referring to his involvement in the Galaxy Manhunt competition last year, where the radio station searched the length and breath of Manchester to find the city’s top twelve eligible bachelors for their calendar. Crowley successfully made the top twelve, so what has Mr. December chosen for this evening? Adam announces: “Tonight I’m going with a casual grey suit with a black shirt. I think it represents the night well.”

The now suited and booted Crowley heads to Lloyd Street, just off Deansgate and enters Boutique an hour before opening, in order to stamp Romp’s identity on the backstreet venue. He sets up the photo booth, raises the banners, dispatches the flyers and covers the main room in posters. Adam seems pleased with his efforts and then begins to talk of the anxiety he used to feel when he first began promoting in April 2007, he says: “In the past I did get very nervous on the night and I used to kill myself with worry, now I’m much more self assured.”

As the doors open and the first revellers venture into the club Adam speaks of the main thing that really used to trouble him, he recalls: “What I struggled to get my head around was the fact we can be really quiet for the first hour.” He takes a seat with his first guests of the night, as he states: “I always hate it when the first people arrive and they’re the only ones here, I feel pretty embarrassed. I always go over give them a drink on the house and assure them, they’re in for a great night.”

Crowley has nothing to worry about as the intimate venue gradually fills to it’s 350 capacity and DJ Stylus pleases the masses, playing classic RnB and soulful dance music. This creates a good vibe that compliments the club’s red lavish décor and sultry aesthetics, DJ Stylus thinks: “These guys do a great job putting the night together it’s a great crowd as Adam doesn’t just let any Tom, Dick or Harry in.”

The night maybe missing Tom, Dick and Harry but it does have Dappy, the easily recognisable member of MOBO winning act N-Dubz, who’s in his element enjoying the hospitality, he says: “People have said good things about this night, so I wanted to see what all the fuss is about. I think it‘s one of the best I‘ve been to in Manchester.” Despite him being a celebrity Dappy best not be expecting any favours from Crowley, who explains: “It’s great getting well known people coming down but he won’t be receiving any special treatment. We have a community feel and all our regular faces deserve the very best too, we try to give everyone the VIP experience.” Never mind as Dappy doesn’t seem disappointed enjoying the relaxed atmosphere inside Boutique although that may have something to do with the female attention, he and his entourage are enjoying.

The vigorous Romping goes into the early hours of the morning and the night has been a success. Leaving Crowley looking to the future and matching his rivals, he says: “Every Tiger Tiger across the country has a Vodka Island on a Monday night and that is what I want to do, take our night national.” Although Crowley, who’ll have to go through the events of today all over again this week, realises how difficult this dream could be to achieve, when he concludes: “Obviously I’d like to say in a few years time we’ll be one of the biggest club nights in the UK but this is a fickle industry. On the good nights everybody wants to be your friend on the bad nights they look at you like it’s all your fault. All I can do is live for the moment and see how things shape up one week to another, it’s a fun ride while it lasts though.”

Mark Ollerton - Living in America feature article

On January 17th 2007 David Beckham held a press conference announcing
his departure from Real Madrid to embark upon a move to LA Galaxy. As we learnt details of the Beckham road show going transatlantic, halfway across Europe Mark Ollerton was sat in a business studies lecture at Manchester Metropolitan University unaware their lives were heading down a similar path.

Beckham cited his main desire in moving to America was to raise the profile of football in the country, opening his own academy. He said: “Soccer is huge all over the world except in America and that’s where I want to make a difference with the kids.”

This sentiment struck a chord with Mark Ollerton who whilst playing football in Leeds was approached with the opportunity to coach children in America with Challenger Sports British Soccer Camps. For the last twenty years Challenger sports have ran summer soccer camps that offer professional FA qualified football coaching to nurture America‘s up and coming talent.

Inspired by his boyhood hero’s move Ollerton took up Challenger’s offer having a similar ambition to his idol. “I saw it as a great opportunity to do something fulfilling and truly different with my life.” To guarantee his place with the company he had to gain the necessary qualifications. He determinedly sacrificed his spare time to become a level one FA approved coach, making him eligible to join the Challenger team for a rigorous training weekend at Warwick University.

In March 2007 while Ollerton was struggling slightly but still working hard towards his dream of California, LA bound Beckham had resolved his differences with Fabio Capello. Making inwards back into the Real Madrid first team and inspiring the Galaticos to their first and only piece of silverware during his four year stay, the La Liga title. Both men for contrasting reasons must have been starting to doubt the timing of their moves across the pond.

After a continued effort Ollerton secured a place in the US for the summer and picked up a notable milestone. “I beat Beckham to America! He was landing at LAX airport on the 12th and us Challenger boys landed on the 11th. It may not mean a lot but it’s still odd to think I beat Beckham to America.” Although he adds the nature of his arrival was somewhat understated in comparison: “It’s fair to say there wasn’t quite as much of a frenzy for us arriving as there was when he landed a day later.”

During his three months in the sweltering California sun Ollerton spent a week at a time visiting the regions various soccer camps, lodging with hospitable families. He thoroughly enjoyed the experience of coaching children and watching them develop. “There was nothing greater than being with the kids and seeing them bust out a step over or two come Friday.” Ollerton understood his responsibility as a coach not just in terms of teaching the children activities and games to improve their ability but also as a role model to the youngsters.

Confidently he claims to have done this rather well telling tales of the armies of fans he amassed during his travels, young and old. “Whenever we left a camp at the end of the week, the kids would run up for autographs and pictures. We felt like superstars.” It must have been rather difficult not to suffer a slight ego trip with all this attention he and his fellow coaches were getting, especially when often the parents were in even more awe than the children. “The parents used to go mental getting their cameras out all the time, that was mostly the mum’s.” Cheekily adding with a rye smile: “we quite liked it when they came to see us.”

Having coached at home and in America surely Ollerton is the ideal person to be drawn on the big question. Which country is currently producing the more talented youngsters? He pauses for a second……....possibly considering just how patriotic he is and replies: “You only have to look at the performances of the American national team during recent world cups to realise as a nation they’re improving because of that and of course Beckham’s high profile move, there has been a greater focus on raising their standards. Starting at grass roots level.”

He suggests that if the growing profile of football can connect with America’s win at all cost mentality, then one day Beckham’s vision may be realised and the standard of football in America could be on par with Europe. Ollerton said: “In my opinion what I’ve seen of the MLS I’d say the teams seem to be Championship standard. Although with the introduction of proven Premiership stars such as Freddie Ljungberg, Brian McBride and Darren Huckerby joining Beckham the level is sure to rise.”

Jeff Tipping, Director of Coaching Education and Development with the National Soccer Coaches Association of America agrees with Ollerton’s view, stating: “Beckham has had a major impact on the soccer scene here.” Although he eagerly highlights that the superstars move to LA Galaxy has mostly brought increased media attention to the game in America rather than a huge improvement. “We’ve been trying to raise the profile of the game for a long time and to be honest soccer has been going through the roof here for quite a number of years before David‘s arrival. We just needed something that would attract the press and Beckham certainly does that.”

Once his time with Challenger came to an end Ollerton took a well earned rest sampling the glitz and glamour of The Golden State. Becoming a Laguna Beach regular and swindling his way into celebrity parties with Hollywood’s elite. “One of my favourite memories was when a group of us blagged our way into a VIP nightclub by pretending we played for West Ham United.” Somehow it worked leaving Ollerton with a pinch yourself moment: “It was unbelievable we were at a bar with Leonardo Dicaprio and Eva Mendes. We even had Colin Farrell asking us about life in England.”

It wasn’t all fun and games though as Ollerton recounts an ill fated roadtrip that ended in him and his companions crossing the Mexican boarder unsure of what to do next. “It was a bit scary as we didn’t have a clue how we’d get back, thankfully we rang our bosses at Challenger and they managed to save us.”

Nearly two years later Ollerton is now a veteran of Challenger’s summer coaching camps, completing his second stint in California this year. Currently he is back in Manchester completing his final year of studies and relishing returning to the US, this time as a supervisor. Reflecting upon coming home he jokingly said: “It’s grim! The other day I was thinking about getting a rope and hanging myself. It never stops raining here.” Ollerton is determined to finish his Business studies degree believing he can apply it to his work in the summer. “After I get my degree my desire is to work fulltime with Challenger and hopefully in time set up my own independent soccer school. I can’t wait to get back out there.”