Former France International who was also fans’ favorite striker at Fulham, Manchester United, Everton & Spurs, scoring in the FA Cup Final after just 25 seconds, nearly 400caps during his career with 100 over goals, Louis Saha who retired recently was in town and shared his football stories with Junpiter Futbol.
JPF: You announced your retirement on your birthday this year via Twitter. Was there any specific reason why you chose your birthday?
LS: It was not exactly a planned birthday announcement. When the season ended, I started to hear many retirement news including the much respected Sir Alex Ferguson’s. So I thought it might be good to wait for the other retirement news to subside before I made the announcement. If not, nobody would notice. I waited and coincidentally, I realized that my birthday was approaching in a week’s time. So I thought why not just made the official announcement on my birthday.
JPF: You have played for many top clubs during your career. Which was your most memorable playing time?
LS: I have got a very good experience playing in different parts of Europe but the most memorable one will have to be with Manchester United. Winning Premier League titles and playing Champions League football was great. Of course, I have also had a great time with Fulham and Tottenham as well. It was a good career.
JPF: Was there any Manchester United player who had great influence on you during your time at Old Trafford?
LS: Yes, I would say there was one but he was the manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. As the seasons went on, you could see the strength of his character. I looked up to him, I improved and that was where I believe I changed as a human being. He motivated me and gave me courage. You learn from people like him.
JPF: You have previously played for David Moyes at Everton, so what is the one thing which David Moyes could bring from Everton to succeed in Manchester United?
LS: I think it has to be his character. He is the same as Sir Alex Ferguson – tough and demanding manager. However unlike Ferguson, Moyes likes to control every aspect of the game to improve a player’s skill. He is also a very hardworking manager.
JPF: Which footballer did you look up to when you were young?
LS: When I was young, I was a great fan of George Weah. He was playing for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) then and I really loved his style of play. I like players like Cristiano Ronaldo too – massive talent! The way they worked hard in training and that’s something which I enjoyed.
JPF: You have spent your youth career with FC Metz and eventually represented the first team at the highest level. What advice would you give our 17year old Adam Swandi who has recently signed with FC Metz?
LS: The people in the north-east (Metz) like players who sweat a lot, that means players who are hardworking and driven. They like players who give them hope. There may be times when one may play badly and that is only human. But you would have to show them that you are committed and willing to work hard. Adam – Work hard, enjoy the experience. And it would be great if you can help the team to be promoted to Ligue 1! Haha…
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