Q. If you could play in the same team as any other player past or present who would it be?
A. I think it would have been Zidane – in a Tottenham shirt of course.
Q. Any ambitions to achieve before you are 30?
A. To win a trophy with Tottenham – and I'd like to think there will be a good bit of time to spare on that one before I reach 30. That and reaching another major finals with Ireland.
Q. Who can sprint the quickest over 100m, you, Dimitar Berbatov, Jermain Defoe or Darren Bent?
A. I've read that Darren was a schoolboy athlete and used to be able to run it in 10.5 seconds, so I guess it would be him. Jermain would reckon he could out-run anyone, whereas I like to think myself and Berba rely more on poise than pace.
Q. What is the most nervous penalty you have taken?
A. I try to treat them all the same so as not to put any added pressure on myself. If you think about one more than another it is asking for trouble. It is always a bit harder when you are forced to wait a little while before taking one.
Q. What is more important in making a top grade footballer, talent or application?
A. They are both vital ingredients and one on its own really isn't enough. For me, you need that, enthusiasm and a real love of playing football.
Q. Does the noise of the crowd really affect the players?
A. It can when you allow it to. If there is a real buzz in the ground you can be inspired by it and use the atmosphere to your advantage – particularly at home. When the crowd are against you at an away game you can shut it out.
Q. Do you prefer Jaffa Cakes or Hobnobs?
A. Neither, I tend to steer clear of biscuits, although Jaffa Cakes are not unheard of in some dressing rooms to give players a little energy boost.
Q. Do you play fantasy football – do the players ever worry about their points tally?
A. I don't play it and I shouldn't imagine any players concern themselves with their points tallies. You never know though.
Q. If you weren't playing football, what would you have done as a career?
A. I really don't know as football has always been first and foremost for me and, luckily enough, I've managed to make my living out of a sport I love.
For more information on AQA 63336 contact:
Donald Parish donald.parish@shinecom.com
Shine Communications Tel: +442071007100
