Gary Forster

When Ray Parlour got called into the Arsenal squad for the first time, he was still only 18. Arsenal were away at Norwich. They were top of the league. And Ray had to get the train up there on his own. By the time he arrived at the team hotel, he was looking for the one person he properly knew. Tony Adams. Tony was from his area, and Steve Rowley had already asked him to keep an eye on Ray coming through. So Ray went straight over to him. “Tone, I’m absolutely cacking myself here, what do you have to do?” That was when Tony decided to help him. Sort of. He told Ray that every new player on his first away trip had to stand up after dinner and make a speech. Ray asked him what he was supposed to say. Tony told him to thank the manager, say it was an honour, mention the lads, and talk about how hard he had been working in the youth team. Then he added one more bit of advice. “Whatever you do, just mention something about the manager’s clothes.” “He really likes that.” Ray believed him. So after dinner, the glasses started tapping. Ray stood up in front of the whole first team. George Graham was there. Everybody watching this nervous teenager give his first speech. “Boss, I’d just like to thank you very much for inviting me up here today.” “It’s what I’ve dreamed of, travelling with the first team for my first game.” Then he thanked the players, said it was a real honour, and hoped there would be more chances to come. So far, so good. Then he remembered Tony’s advice. “Oh, and by the way, Boss, all the lads really like your tank top.” George Graham’s face changed straight away. George just looked at him and said: “Sit down, son.” The whole room started laughing. Ray had been stitched up before he had even made his debut.