Exclusive Louis Carey Interview

Last night, Bristol City Football Club thanked its player shirt sponsors by designating an evening to those who part with their hard earned money for the players and the club. Each player was asked to be photographed and spend the evening with their sponsors. The squad with the season not yet finished were hospitable, approachable and candid.

None more so than the man who we hope on the 24th of May will be climbing those historic Wembley steps to collect the Championship play-off winners trophy, club captain Louis Carey. He sat for long periods of time with me and my family, was happy to talk to all supporters and was the last player to leave the evening. A credit to the club, and a player destined for history, he allowed me to interview him for your pleasure.

Who was your footballing hero as a child?

I had two actually, Diego Maradona, because he was absolutely brilliant, and Alan Hansen because he played in my position at centre half.

You are a Bristol lad captaining Bristol City, how much pride does that give you?

I can't really put it into words. It was enough to be a YTS and then turn professional. It was enough to make my debut for the club, so to lead the team and club out as captain of my local side is an absolute honour.

Who is the best player you've played with at Bristol City?

Can I say a few? There have been so many. Scott Murray in that season where he scored all those goals was unbelievable. Shaun Goater and Brian Tinnion were absolute quality, and in my position Shaun Taylor was great. The current players I play with aren't bad either!

Are you in contact with any players who have now left the club?

A lot have now retired, so not as many as I should, but yes I am in contact with a few ex City lads.

You are infamous for your marauding runs forward, do you like playing at centre half or right full back?

I liked playing at right back when we were flying at the top of the league, when I had Greg Goodridge and Scott Murray in front of me and we played very attacking football. I prefer to play at centre back because I can still do my runs and I'm more involved with the game as a whole.

Do you or the other players read online forums, and if so does it affect the team?

I personally don't because even though if I read a complimentary part I would be happy, if I read a negative post I would be thinking about it as I played. I get told that some players do read them.

Of all the managers you have played under, what sets Gary Johnson apart?

Its everything, how thorough he is, his preparation, the training, his attitude, his amazing will to win and his enthusiasm for the game.

What do you base this seasons success upon?

An unbelievable team spirit, mostly. We have great work rate from the front to the back and the signings we have made have added to an already high quality squad we had in League One.

Pete Johnson does a great job scouting for new talent. As club captain, do you have any say in who gets brought to the club?

Not really, but when the club was contemplating signing Lee Trundle the gaffer asked me if I thought he was good enough, having played against him a few times.

Who is the best team you've played against this season?

West Bromwich Albion, by a country mile. I only played in the home tie, where we drew 1-1, but you could just tell we were up against quality. The way they keep possession is unbelievable. I didn't play at The Hawthorns, but they were amazing that day.

Who is the best player you've played against this season?

I would probably say Kevin Phillips for West Bromwich Albion, although Ricardo Fuller at Stoke was good too.

Crystal Palace have been described by Neil Warnock as a "Horrible team, with horrible fans in a horrible ground. It's perfect for me, this place." Is it intimidating playing at Selhurst Park?

I don't think it's horrible, it's a lovely stadium with great fans who create an atmosphere and they have a good side. He (Warnock) took over with the club struggling, so they needed to play horrible, that's what he has done, and that's why they are where they are in the league.

You've spoken about wanting to break your play-off hoodoo - have you been practicing your penalties?

You know what I took my first one today, there was no keeper in the goal, but it went in! We haven't thought about penalties yet, we will see how Saturday goes first.

I would like to thank Louis Carey for taking the time to conduct this interview and wish him and the rest of the squad luck for the play-offs that lie ahead.

Ross Verbals