Bolton Wanderers striker Adam Le Fondre talks us through his football memories
First match? It would have been a Stockport County game. I can’t remember the actual game because, at the time, I would have been seven or eight and we used to get free tickets through the centre of excellence. They were relatively successful back then and played in the second tier when I was younger, so they were a decent side. First hero? The one player I really loved when I was younger was Brian McClair. He sticks out from when I was about six years old and he was playing in midfield for Manchester United. Then, Eric Cantona came on the scene and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as well. They were the three main heroes of my childhood. First boots? I had a pair of Adidas Questra boots – they were black with a purple line around them. I loved them. I scored so many goals in them it was untrue! Then, the Adidas Predators started to come out a little after that and I went on to them. I recently managed to pick up the new version of the first Predators I ever wore, which was quite nice. I don’t think I’ll wear them, though. They’re more of a collector’s item. First kit? There’s a picture of me when I’m about two years old and I’m wearing an England kit, but my first club kit was a Man United one when I was four. There’s no choice of club in our family, United is pretty much a religion! First game? My Football League debut was when I was playing for Stockport and we lost 3-0 to Sheffield Wednesday at home. But my actual debut came before that and was against Bury in the LDV Vans Trophy. We won 3-1 after extratime and I managed to score when I came on as a substitute. It’s a brilliant memory. First goal? The goal in the Bury game was also my first professional goal. It was a cross-cumshot and, to be fair, it was one of the best goals I’ve ever scored! I was 25 yards out, running down the right and my cross ended up in the top corner. Obviously I just stood there as if I meant it, and it was a nice way to introduce myself to everyone. Luckily, my career kicked on from there, really. First red card? I’ve never been sent off as a professional. I’ve had a lot of bookings, but no red card. I don’t really tackle so I’ve never been put in that situation! I’m always good when it comes to dissent as well, so no early baths for me – as of yet. It’s a record I’d like to keep.