Take it from me, I never expected in my life I would ever have the opportunity to meet those I most admire and respect. How many times had I watched from the stands or even at home in front of the television, the “little wizard” displaying his individuality, skill, depth and intelligence: “that back-heel, turn and low driven shot” against Wimbledon in the semi-final of the 1997 FA Cup; that goal of fearsome velocity against West Ham when Zola twisted and turned Julian Dicks inside out, all these moments were pumping through my mind as Gianfranco is stood inches in front of me.
This man is probably Chelsea’s greatest ever player and he is here, with me, on the pitch, at Stamford Bridge.
At this point I begin to ask myself, “How the hell did I get here?”
Back in May I entered a “journalist competition” (before I started writing for Chelsea Mad), that enabled the winner to spend a day in the press box with Matchday Magazine editor Neil Barnett (also of ChelseaTV). To enter each person had to pose three “journalistic” questions to a Chelsea player of their choice of which Neil Barnett would pick the most original threesome. The winner (in this case yours truly) would not only see the game but get to pose the questions personally as well!
So, here I was. Sunday 1st September 2002, 6.20pm standing numb, silent and petrified inches from my/our hero. I was not only the uncomfortable, uneasy competition winner but I was also in awe. A lethal cocktail likely to induce stupidity if not carefully managed.
Before I detail the conversation/interview that took place that sunny afternoon, I need to say this……
This man has left a mark on me.
His humility, fragility, politeness, shyness and humour was every bit as impressive as his strengths so often encountered and displayed on the pitch.
He far exceeded my every expectation. This is not something that will ever be forgotten.
Below you will find the three original questions entered into the competition followed by the edited article that appeared in the recent Matchday Magazine for Chelsea’s home game against Newcastle (14th September 2002).
Read on….
To Gianfranco Zola:-
Gianfranco you often been described as a wizard, a wizard with magic in his boots. You have given so much of yourself to the club and to the supporters and on the night of 17th January 2002 we all witnessed a very special goal that you graciously dedicated to the memory of terminally sick boy you had recently met. What special ingredient made that goal against Norwich? Was it your wizardry, passion, imagination? How special is that goal to you?
In his book “1966 and all that” Geoff Hurst describes you as having all the virtues of an English gentlemen, one who gives a wonderful example of how the game should be played and how players should conduct themselves. He rightly states that you are a wonderful ambassador for the sport and for Chelsea but it is a shame that you are not English! If we could make you English we would but which English player do you wish was Italian, and why?
Zola, on the pitch you are so forgiving, so sporting, so ready to smile and offer your hand to an opponent. Was it Wise that taught you such humility, good grace and manners?
The Matchday Magazine Article - Fan Meets Franco After The Game
The winner of the competition in the last Matchday Magazine of last season, to ask a player three questions, asked those questions after the draw with Arsenal.
Steve Furlong of Broadstairs in Kent was the editor’s guest in the press box, and was able to meet Gianfranco Zola.
“You are often described as a wizard with magic in his boots,” Steve started, and recalled the goal against Norwich. “What special ingredient made that goal? Was it your wizardry, passion, imagination? How special is that goal to you?”
Franco replied: “I think it was instant really. You can’t say you plan goals like that. You just take the moment. I went for the ball and it was too low to head it so I went for the flick, and it came out quite a good goal.
“It was tough to do it, I don’t think I’ll do it again.”
Steve’s second question related to Geoff Hurst having described Franco as: “having all the virtues of an English gentleman.” “Which English player do you wish was Italian?” Steve asked.
“At the moment there are a few English players that I admire a lot as footballers. Beckham, Rio Ferdinand, and others. There are good talented players and in this country football is going up.
“One of the players I admired the most, not only as a footballer but as a person, was Adams. I think he was a great professional and a great footballer. It was very difficult to play against him.”
The final question: “On the pitch you’re so forgiving, so sporting, so ready to smile and offer your hand to an opponent. Was it Wise who offered such good grace and manners?”
“Yes! He taught me what not to do on the pitch!
“No, Dennis Wise has got a big influence on me. I had great friendships when I came with Dennis, Kevin Hitchcock, Steve Clarke, Robbie Di Matteo, players that really helped me to settle down quickly.”
….And so my moment was over. After several photographs and hand shakes we said our goodbyes and it was finished.
Several minutes later I noticed Gianfranco leaving to go home, walking alongside the side of the pitch. As he passed I called, “Thanks Franco” and waved. Initially he muttered a quick “ok” but after a closer second look he recognised it was the “young man” he had just spoken to. With this, he turned round and shouted “Hey Steve, your welcome.”
My day/life was complete!