5 Forgotten Footballers

The Top Five Footballers Time Forgot:
Have you ever wondered what happened to that footballer, the journalists heralded 'The next big thing'? Or have you simply been watching a Championship side playing in the FA Cup on ITV1, on a Saturday morning and then asking yourself 'is he still playing?'


If so, then this is the article for you. You may well be pleasantly surprised to be re-introduced to a few old faces!







'Super Kev Phillips'

#5: Kevin Phillips:
Our fifth player, is one of our oldest players. Yes, Kevin Phillips is still kickin' around; he is currently on loan to Crystal Palace from Blackpool. Still clinical; 2 goals in 5 games. 'Super Kev' has played for no fewer than nine clubs: Sunderland and Southamptan being two of the most notable sides he has plied his trade at. Born in 1973, Kevin Phillips is four months older than Manchester United's, Ryan Giggs. An interesting fact about Kevin Phillips is that he is the only Englishman to date, to win the European Golden Boot. Unfortunately, however, Phillip's never prospered on the international scene, being overshadowed by the likes of: Andy Cole, Alan Shearer and Michael Owen.

#4: Johnathan Woodgate:


Johnathan Woodgate

Our fourth player may be the most unfortunate; legal issues and injury problems blighted a promising career, that saw him play for the Galactico's or Real Madrid to the Minnow's of Middlesbourgh. In some people's opinion: Woodgate may well of been England's most naturally gifted centre-back of recent years, but misfortune and injury prevented the talented centre-back to cement a place in the England XI. An interesting fact about Woodgate, is that he was the first English player born in the 1980's to play a full international game. He was also part of the Newcastle United team that reached the 2004 UEFA Cup semi-final, as well as being a member of the Leeds side to reach the Champions League semi-finals. During his chequered career, he has pulled on the jerseys of seven different teams. He currently plays for Middlesbourgh, an unfitting side for a former Galactico.



#3: Michael Bridges:
Some people may be scratching their scalps at this inclusion, 'Who is he?' you might be thinking. Well in the 1996-1997 Premier League season, Michael Bridges emerged as one of the brightest prospects in England. Born in North Shields, Bridges signed for Wallsend Boys Club, before joining Sunderland. From there he scored 16 goals in 79 league appearances, which caught the attention of -the then top side- Leeds FC, which prompted them to spend £5 millon on the Geordie lad. He went on to score 19 Premier League goals in his maiden season for Leeds, he also became for first LUFC player since 1995 to score a competitive hat rick, since 1995. From here, his career descended. He played for a string of lower league English teams; and could never find the form that he showed at Leeds. He now plays in Australia for the Newcastle Jets. Michael Bridges could of had the world at his feet, if it were not for bad luck.


#2: Michael Owen:






Michael Owen, could fit into the 'Hero to zero' bracket perfectly. 15 years ago, he burst onto the international scene after netting a phenomenal solo-goal against Argentina, in the 1998 World Cup. Fast forward to today, he is jeered by the journalists that proclaimed him to be England's saviour. Many people - including myself - find Michael Owen to be a greedy, waste of a footballer. Ever since leaving Liverpool for the Galactico's of Madrid, Owen has been labelled a bench warmer. The one time Liverpool player ranks 7th in the all time Premier League scorers table, with 150 goals. He is also the highest scoring England player still playing; with 40 goals, in 89 appearances. Michael Owen currently plays for Stoke City, a step down from Manchester United, Newcastle Liverpool and Real Madrid, in many people's opinions. I am sure in his own heart, he will know the same. Michael Owen could of been the greatest player in the world, had he not pursued his greed. A true shame.


#1: Edgar Davids:



You're more than likely thinking: 'He is still playing?'. You wouldn't be wrong thinking that way either. The one time: Juventus, Barcelona and Spurs man, is now plying his trade in Barnet, as a player-coach. Nearing the age of 40, Edgar Davids does not have the Fountain of youth of his side. But he is still 'The Pitbull'. Renowned for his goggles; which he needs for his Glaucoma. Edgar Davids is the number one player on the list for more than one reason: Ten years ago, he was a superstar. The Dutchman won countless medals in: Italy, Spain and his native Holland, including the UEFA Champions League. He even featured alongside: Roberto Carlos and Ryan Giggs on the FIFA 2003 case. Since he left Ajax in 2008, Davids has played for Crystal Palace and Barnet. As 'little'as these sides are, it is nice to see a footballer from my childhood still kickin' around; it gives of a sense of nostalgia.

It will be a sad day for the sport of Football when Edgar Davids calls it a day for the third and final time.

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Twitter: RyanRowley23
Email: Ryan.Rowley@Live.co.uk