Robin Friday was arguably the coolest ever player to rock Stylo Matchmakers football boots. Friday was a very talented footballer blessed with skill and an game intelligence – he had creative vision, could use both feet and was incredibly brave. A striker who could tackle, finish, and create goals. He won player of the season twice when playing for Reading. Robin was also voted Reading and Cardiff City’s ‘All-Time Cult Hero’ in a BBC TV poll in 2004 and was voted Reading’s ‘Player of the Millennium’ in 1999. He is an all-time great and will never be forgotten by those Royals supporters who saw him grace the Elm Park pitch in that era.
Robin was a nonconformist, and he had his own tricks and skills, and he just wanted to entertain the fans.
Reading brought Robin in on trial for the reserves in November 1973. Many great performances followed. Robin and Reading would go on to win promotion to the Third Division for the first time in fifty years.
Robin’s performances at Elm Park attracted the attention of many clubs. Eventually, even Reading couldn’t control Robin, and Cardiff City bought him in December 1976. Robin left Elm Park for Ninian Park.
The many tales of Robin Friday’s antics both on and off the field are legends in Reading and Cardiff. Those who got to meet him say he had a special vibe about him and that he was a fearless but that he had a introverted side too. He liked to entertain both on and off the pitch, that’s for sure. Robin Friday was a unique and complex personality.
Even though Robin was really struggling with off-the-field issues at Cardiff City, he gained loyal fans, such with his skill and showmanship both on and off the field.
Liam Brady
Liam Brady is considered one of the greatest Irish footballers of all time. He was a midfield player who played for clubs such as Arsenal, Juventus, and West Ham United, as well as the Republic of Ireland national team.
Brady was known for his exceptional technical skills, vision, and passing ability. He was a playmaker, who had the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. He was also known for his ability to score goals, he was a set-piece specialist, and his ability to score long-range shots. He had a great first touch and was known for his ability to control the ball in tight spaces. He was also a highly respected leader, who was known for his professionalism and work ethic.
During his time at Arsenal, he helped the team win the FA Cup in 1979 and the Football League Cup in 1987, and was named the club's Player of the Year in 1977 and 1979. He also won the Serie A title with Juventus in 1985 and was named the Italian Footballer of the Year in 1985. He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
In summary, Liam Brady was a highly skilled and talented midfielder who had a significant impact on the game during his career. He was a player who was known for his exceptional technical ability and vision, as well as his leadership and professionalism. He was respected by fans and peers alike and his legacy continues to live on today.
