ONE ON ONE
What was it like, scoring that incredible long-distance goal for Spurs at the Emirates in that famous 4-4 draw? How many times have you watched it back? Do you think you could do it again? @Bigcub_, via Twitter I’ve never watched it back. It was another moment when I felt, prior to the game, that I was going to do something good. All my mates were there, Harry [Redknapp] had just come in after Juande Ramos, and I felt that this was going to be a big night; that everything had been getting on my nerves and this was going to be different.
The ball just sat up nicely for me. We had been in a meeting before the game and it was mentioned that their keeper [Manuel Almunia] liked to stand off his line, so I just hit it. I think I hit it out of frustration because of the way the season had gone. If I had been in a good mood I might have controlled it and played it wide to my full-back. Instead, I smashed it. And yeah, I could do it again.
I heard that you love Kings of Leon. What’s been your best experience watching them? Simon Massey, Bristol I had my top off in the mosh pit once at Wembley Arena [in December 2008] – I was having a great night. The thing is, a picture got in The Sun and I ended up getting fined a week’s wages by Spurs! I’d seen them in Camden before they were famous and loved them. I met them eventually and ended up on a night out with the band. I’m not telling you about that night, though – rock ’n’ roll!
Is it true Jose Mourinho showed interest in signing you when he was Inter Milan boss? Adam Cooper, via Facebook Yeah, he was keen, but it just never happened. I’m not sure why. It was probably something between the two clubs; something to do with money. He wanted to bring me to Chelsea when I was at Blackburn, too.
What was the highlight of your time at White Hart Lane? Finishing fourth in the 2009-10 season was pretty great, right? Stuart Thomas, via email I’m very much a team man. People won’t believe that, but I came to Tottenham to be part of a great team. Personal moments, such as the Arsenal goal, are great – but yes, my favourite memory is qualifying for the Champions League that season. It had all clicked under Harry and that was great.