Paul Robinson experienced incredible highs and crushing lows during his goalkeeping career.
The Yorkshireman was a Leeds United academy product and he was there during their glory, glory days under chairman Peter Ridsdale. What players they had – think of names like Smith, Woodgate, Kewell, Maybury, Kelly, Bowyer, Harte and Radebe.
Paul came under the wing of brilliant, tough-but-fair youth coach Paul Hart and was toughened up by John Burridge at Durham City – in my opinion the most wonderfully nutty No1 in British football history. Paul explains how ‘Budgie’ had a truly extraordinary enthusiasm for the beautiful game and a massive heart. An injury crisis handed Paul his first-team debut against Chelsea. He was only eighteen, but he loved every minute of it. Eventually, he would star against top Champions League teams, including a Barcelona side which featured the magical Rivaldo.
You will love this Big Interview with this engaging, thoughtful, articulate man.
Graham.
