Oldham Athletic defender Anthony Gerrard’s ‘One to Eleven’

Oldham Athletic and Republic of Ireland defender ANTHONY GERRARD on playing with Rooney from the age of eight, Gazza’s tears and his plans for a second career

First Football Memory

My first real memory of watching football would have to be watching the 1990 World Cup and Gazza crying.

The Best Player You’ve Played With

Wayne Rooney — I played with him when we were kids from eight years old up. He was a special talent and doesn’t get the recognition he deserves. He is under-appreciated by everyone.

Your Toughest Opponent

Andy Carroll — he was a nightmare to play against. He won every header and bullied me all game.

Your Favourite Footballing Moment

I won the League Two title with Walsall against Swindon Town around 10 years ago. Dean Keates scored with five minutes to go and I don’t remember anything from the game after that.

Your Sporting Hero

I have a lot but I would have to pick Paolo Maldini because of the way he played. He started at AC Milan at 17 and looked like a Rolls-Royce and played that way until he was 40.

Gerard recalls playing football with Wayne Rooney when the England star was eight-years-old

Your Toughest Away Ground

Wembley Stadium. I’ve played there twice and lost twice, so not great memories.

The First Album You Bought

The Verve’s Urban Hymns or White Ladder by David Gray. I can’t remember which I bought first but it’s one of those.

Your Karaoke Song

I don’t do karaoke, I can’t sing.

Gerrard also says first album he bought was The Verve’s Urban Hymns, but that he can’t sing!

Best Dressed Team-mate

Ollie Banks loves to have a bash now and again.

Your Dream Dinner Party Guests

Lionel Messi, David Attenborough (above) — I love the documentaries he makes, I find them so fascinating — Beyonce and Micky Flanagan.

If I Wasn’t A Footballer I Would Be

A male model (joke!)