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  • An Evening with the Legends of Everton

    Superstar Speakers are proud to announce we will be holding an exclusive event in Chester Crowne Plaza celebrating the Legends of Everton FC on Jan 21st 2021 CLICK THE ABOVE IMAGE FOR TICKETS This blog will give you all the Everton news you need with regards to this fantastic event, where we will be bringing together FIVE legends of of the Toffees to meet and greet the Evertonians and tell stories of their iconic careers with Everton One of the biggest clubs in England, Everton have a rich history that includes 9 league titles, 5 FA Cups, ! Cup Winners Cup and 9 Charity Shields They are one of the oldest clubs in the country and have been in the top flight of English Football since 1954. Throughout their entire history they have only missed 4 seasons in the top division setting a record of 117 seasons. Find out which legends will be joining us here 1. Martin Dobson Everton 1974 - 1979 Big Dobbo became the first player to be transferred for ÂŁ300,000 when he signed for Everton from Burnley in 1974. Dobson made 230 appearances for Everton and scored 40 goals for the club. Since retiring from playing and managing Dobson returned to Goodison Park where he served as matchday host and as professional development co-ordinator 2. Duncan McKenzie Everton 1976 - 1978 Everyone loves Maverick McKenzie, one of footballs original entertainers we are delighted to have Duncan attended our Everton legends event and are certain he has some amazing stories from is wonderful career. Whether its jumping over Mini Coopers, throwing golf balls the length of the pitch or (maybe) even talking about his footballing career including his perfomance against local rivals Liverpool in the 1977 FA Cup Semi Final 3. Joe Royle Everton Player 1966 - 1974, Manager 1994 - 1997 Born and bred in Liverpool, Joe Royle is Everton Royalty. He made his debut for Everton at age 16 making him the youngest player to play for the club, a record he held until 2005. He made 270 appearances for the Toffees and scored 119 goals. During his playing days he won the 1970 First Division and Charity Shield - one of the 5 seasons he was top scorer for the club, scoring 23 goals in 1969 - 70 Royle returned as Everton Manager in 1994 and went on to restore some pride and success to Everton. Beloved for signing Everton Legend Duncan Ferguson and other greats such as Gary Speed, Andrei Kanchelskis and Nicky Barmby. Joe Royle's high point as Everton Manager was winning the 1995 FA Cup beating Manchester United in the Final 4. Graeme Sharp Everton 1980 - 1991 A loyal Everton player who spent 11 years at Goodison Park, earnins a solid reputation as a prolific striker making 322 appearances and scoring 111 goals. Sharp made his name as a well respected striker during the glory days of Everton FC - winning the First Divison in 1985 and 1987, the FA Cup in 1984, The Charity Shield in 84, 85, 86, 87 and the Cup Winners Cup 1985. He was Everton's top goal scorer in 1982, 1983, 1985, 1988. Sharp will always be a hero to the Evertonians for his incredible goal against local rivals Liverpool in 1985 5. Neville Southall Everton 1981 - 1998 One of the finest goalkeepers to have played for Everton, and arguably the top flight of English football. Big Nev made 750 appearance for Everton firmly establishing himself as the Toffees first choice number 1. During his time at the club his presence helped Everton win the league in both 1985 and 1987, the FA Cup in 1984 and he was still there for the win in 1995, Charity Shield in 1984, 1985 and 1995 and the Cup Winners Cup in 1985 A true Everton Legend Southall holds the record for the most league appearances (578), overall most appearances (750) most FA Cup appearances (70) and most league cup appearances (65) for the club Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook Check out all our upcoming events here https://www.superstarspeakers.co.uk/shop

  • Chelsea's Champions League Winning Manager Roberto Di Matteo comes to Northampton

    In 2012 Chelsea won the Champions League trophy for the first time. Making them the first (and to date only) London club to do so. The man who masterminded the final was Roberto Di Matteo *** CHECK OUT OUR UPCOMING EVENTS HERE - CLICK THE IMAGE *** Di Matteo is one of the few men to have achieved glory for Chelsea as both a player and a manager. Winning the 1997 and 2000 FA Cup, 1998 League Cup, 1998 Cup Winners Cup and 1998 UEFA Super Cup as a player. Then as caretaker manager guiding Chelsea to the 2012 FA Cup and Champions League. As a player Di Matteo was a vital part of the Chelsea midfield, alongside Gus Poyet, Dennis Wise and Dan Petrescu, and was part of the late 90s - early 2000s revival of the club. He is fondly remembered for his match winning goals in cup finals - scoring within 42 seconds in the FA Cup final 1997 against Middlesbrough, scoring against Boro again in the League Cup final in 1998 and scoring against Aston Villa (a team he would later go on to manage) in the 2000 FA Cup Final. He famously quoted about Wembley 'it's a shame they are tearing the old place down, it has been a very lucky ground for me' If he had left Chelsea as a player, he would be fondly remembered for his role in re-igniting the fortunes of the club, but his drive to become a manager and love of Chelsea brought him back as the assistant to Andre Villas-Boas. After the sacking of Villas-Boas, Di Matteo became the caretaker manager and lead Chelsea to a further FA Cup victory against Liverpool and then, his defining moment, taking Chelsea to the Champions League final against Bayern Munich - and beating them in their home city! (even beating the mighty Barcelona on route!) We are proud to welcome Roberto Di Matteo to Superstar Speakers and welcome him to Northampton, where Chelsea fans will get the chance to have their photograph with Di Matteo, listen to a live and unscripted interview with the man himself and have the opportunity to ask their own questions. As well as enjoy the whole Superstar Speakers Experience with live games and auctions and memorabilia available Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook #Chelsea #RobertoDiMatteo #championsleague #facup #chelseafc #2012 #london #italy #fastestgoal #eveningwith #astonvilla #championsleaguefinal #manager #blue #chelseatickets

  • Why the 1991 European Cup Winners Cup is so important in Manchester United History

    *** CUP WINNERS CUP LEGENDS MEMORABILIA AVAILABLE HERE *** As Superstar Speakers prepare to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of this incredible acheivement with the 1991 Cup Winners Cup Legends Tour, we look back at the circumstances that lead up to this historic achievement and how it shaped the future of Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United WE CAUGHT UP WITH BRYAN ROBSON AND CLAYTON BLACKMORE TO ASK ABOUT THEIR MEMORIES OF THE 1991 CUP WINNERS CUP In 1991 Manchester United won the Cup Winners Cup. It was the first European Cup for Sir Alex Ferguson in his time at Manchester United and was the start of the glorious era of Sir Alex at Manchester United – however with the later success he had with the treble, back to back Premier League wins, the Class of 92 and the 2008 Champions League win – the 1991 Cup Winners Cup tends to get forgotten about, yet it is one of the most important trophies in the modern era of Man United and English Football *** Click the link for Tickets to the on the Legends Tour *** The FA Cup 1990 Sir Alex Ferguson’s first trophy at Manchester United and the first time they had won the trophy since 1985 (the year before Sir Alex joined the club) This is the trophy that (as urban legend suggests) saved Alex Ferguson’s job at Manchester United – He had been at the club 4 years and was having little success, to the point the vultures were circling and calls for his sacking were getting louder. ‘Man United were struggling in the league under Alex Ferguson – who’d been in charge for more than three years with no success – and were hovering above the relegation zone, having lost 11 of their league games by the time their FA Cup campaign began away to Nottingham Forest on 7 January, 1990. United hadn’t won for eight games prior to the Cup tie and, with results bleak in other competitions, it was believed success in the competition was vital to Fergie’s survival. - TalkSport Nottingham Forest were still under the guidance of the legendary Brian Clough and had reach the FA Cup Semis in 1988 and 1989 having knocked Man United out in the 1989 Quarter Finals. The also won the EFL cup in 1989 and would again in 1990. In short it looked like Manchester United would be out of the competition straight away, quickly followed by Sir Alex Ferguson being out of a job. However, as is often the case in football, things didn’t go how the experts predicted and Mark Robins scored to give Manchester United a much needed win over Nottingham Forest. Manchester United went on to power through the competition meeting Crystal Palace in the final – Who had just defeated league champions Liverpool in a 4-3 classic, once again leaving Man United as the underdogs The final was an end to end affair with Palace going 1-0 up after 18 mins, only for Bryan Robson to equalize at 35 mins, Mark Hughes scored to put Man Utd in front at 62 mins. Palace then equalized at 72 mins then took the lead at 92 mins. Mark Hughes, ever the big game player, scored once again to level the final at 3 -3 and earn Manchester United a replay and keep Sir Alex Ferguson in touching distance of his first Utd trophy. The replay of the final famously ended with Lee Martin scoring one of his two goals for the club, and arguably his most important as it is the goal that won Sir Alex’s first trophy with Manchester United, proved the catalyst for the continued success Sir Alex had, proved that the Manchester United Youth team set up was working (which Sir Alex was passionate about, and years later wold provide the greatest collection of footballers in English History, and arguably saved Sir Alex Ferguson’s job and changed Manchester United history. Without winning the FA Cup Manchester United wouldn’t have qualified for Europe the following year *** Lee Martin tell us what happened AFTER his incredible goal *** The Heysel Stadium Disaster The 1985 European Cup Final between Liverpool and Juventus is considered “the darkest hour in the history of the UEFA Competitions” - Wikipedia Thirty-nine people died and 600 were injured when fans were crushed against a wall that then collapsed during the European Cup final between Liverpool and Juventus, after crowd trouble culminated in a surge by Liverpool supporters towards the Italian team's fans. - BBC The result of this tragedy left all English clubs banned from European competition – with the 1991 tournament being the first one where they were allowed to compete again. All eyes were on Manchester United as they made there way into the final as this was the way that the English Teams could make a positive statement that they deserved to be in European Competition, that the tragedy was in the past and that Manchester United were on the verge of something special. Sir Alex Ferguson had previous won the trophy with Aberdeen so he had the experience in a major final and new what it took to win in Europe, this win would be the first European Trophy for Manchester United since the days of George Best, Bobby Charlton and Alex Stepney in 1968 Alex Ferguson had turn Manchester United around from a sleeping giant to having the eyes of the world on them. *** Brian McClair on the 1991 Cup Winners Cup *** The Final Manchester United Vs Barcelona. May 15th 1991. Feijenoord Stadium, Rotterdam. The 1991 Manchester United team has to be considered as one of the all time great teams under Sir Alex Ferguson, it tends to get forgotten about due to the arrival of the epic Class of 92 that burst onto the scene in the next few years The starting 11 were Les Sealey, Denis Irwin, Clayton Blackmore, Steve Bruce, Mike Phelan, Gary Pallister, Bryan Robson, Paul Ince, Brian McClair, Mark Hughes and Lee Sharpe Each one a Manchester United legend – the 1991 Cup Winners Cup team represents a collection of great players all at their peak at the same time, a team who had gone undefeated throughout the entire tournament However the Barcelona team would prove to be no push over With a starting 11 of Carles Busquets, Nando, Jose Ramon Alexanko, Ronald Koeman, Albert Ferrer, Jose Mari Bakero, Jon Andoni Goikoetxea, Eusebio, Julio Salinas, Michael Ludrup and Txiki Begiristain and managed by Johan Cruyff – this team would go on to become European Champions in 1992 Manchester United had a secret weapon in Mark Hughes. The Welsh Striker had previously been signed to Barcelona between 1986 and 1988 but had a relatively unsuccessful period there, on his return to Old Trafford Hughes proved why he was one of the best strikers on the world and scoring incredible goals on a regular basis for the Red Devils. Hughes had a point to prove against his former club – and went ahead and proved it in a perfect fashion *** Lee Sharpe and Clayton Blackmore on the 1991 Cup Winners Cup*** Despite Man United being relentless in attack, the first half ended 0-0 and it wasn’t until the 67 minute that Bryan Robson’s Free Kick found the head of Steve Bruce, followed by a tap in from Hughes to put United ahead (there was some dispute over the ownership of the goal – but it is officially credited to Hughes) In the 74th minute Hughes doubled the lead and made it 2 – 0 with a sublime goal, as he used his blistering pace to beat Busquets and then hammer home the winning goal from a tight angle on the edge of the penalty box Koeman scored (what proved to be) a consolation goal for Barca in the 79th minute, but it wasn’t enough and Manchester United won the first European Cup since 1968 and the first of many for Sir Alex Ferguson *** Click the image to see our choice of Sparky's greatest goals *** Why this win is important for Manchester United and Sir Alex Ferguson In 2 years Sir Alex Ferguson had taken Manchester United from a struggling team to European Champions. It was his firm belief in a robust youth system and exceptional management skill that helped build the momentum from the FA Cup in 1990 through to the 1991 Cup Winners Cup. This momentum lead to more trophies including the clubs first ever EFL Cup in 1992, the European Super Cup in 1991 and then becoming the first ever winners of English Football's Premier League in 1993. Whilst his 1991 Cup Winning team started aging and leaving the club in the early 1990s, Sir Alex started introducing younger talent into the mix – based on the proven success of Mark Robins, Lee Martin and more, a second wave of ‘Fergie’s Fledglings’ started making their mark in the first team including Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville Success continued for Sir Alex with a league and cup double in 1994 and 1996 and the famous 1999 treble winning season in which, once again, the entirety of English football looked to Sir Alex and Manchester United to represent this great footballing nation It is no doubt that the great manager looked back to the pressures and success of the 1991 Cup winners Cup experience to prepare him for that night in (ironically) Barcelona against Bayern Munich on 26th May 1999 This is why the 1991 Cup Winners Cup is so important to Manchester United – it was the full stop on any doubts that people had about Sir Alex Ferguson’s caliber as a manager, it solidified the career of one of Britain’s great footballing men and helped him build towards a great footballing era in the history of Manchester United It all started with the 1991 Cup winners Cup Check Out all the information on the upcoming Manchester United legends tours - as we travel the country celebrating the 30th Anniversary of this important trophy win Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Bruno! Bruno! Bruno! The National Treasure Frank Bruno returns to Superstar Speakers

    Northampton Park Inn Radisson Hotel on JULY 22nd 2021 we welcome the former Heavyweight Champion of the World Frank Bruno MBE for an 'Evening With' event https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-frank-bruno-tickets-85105993317 Frank Bruno is an icon of British Sport, a boxer who crossed over into mainstream entertainment and won the hearts of the nation when he became WBC heavyweight champion of the world in 1995 Since hanging up the gloves Frank has been public about his battles with mental health and become a catalyst for men to talk about mental health issues and has played a huge part in removing the stigma surrounding the illness Where is Frank Bruno from? Bruno was born Franklin Roy Bruno in Wandsworth London in 1961. Born to a Jamaican mother and Dominican father he grew up in London with 5 brothers and sisters. Frank first started taking boxing seriously during his spell at a reform school. He went on to have a successful amateur career before turning pro in the early 80s What was Frank Bruno's fight record? Bruno had 45 fights, winning 40 and 38 of those by KO, and 5 losses This record gives Frank a 95% knockout rate from his fights and during his career he was known for his incredible punching power When did Frank Bruno win the World Title? 2nd September 1995 was the biggest night in Bruno's career. In front of a packed Wembley Stadium, Bruno went the distance against Oliver McCall to claim the WBC World Heavyweight Championship. It was Bruno's 4th attempt at a World title, having lost to Tim Witherspoon, Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson before this night. It was Bruno's 44th fight and was the culmination of a journey that began in 1982. Frank had achieved the dream he had, vocally, set out to achieve and the victory secured his status as a national treasure to the UK How has Frank Bruno helped people with Mental Health? Frank Bruno has been open about his battles with mental health having released his second book (Let Me Be Frank) which chronicles his history his bipolar disorder. Frank admitting he suffers from this disease has proved to be a huge stepping stone in men admitting the same and making people realize that its not a weakness and if a boxing world champion can suffer, then any one can. This has lead to the formation of the Frank Bruno Foundation to help build healthy bodies and healthy minds. www.thefrankbrunofoundation.co.uk ***Check out all our Boxing News here*** Click the image for all boxing news Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook #FrankBruno #boxing #boxer #WBCchampion #heavyweightchampion #worldchampion #letsclearthecloud #knockoutstigma

  • Archie Gemmill on England and Scotland in Euro 2020

    FORMER Forest and Derby legend Archie Gemmill expects England to put on an improved performance in tonight’s crucial Euro 2020 tie with traditional rivals Germany – but doesn’t rate them as one of the competition’s six most likely winners. Gemmill, now 74, lit up the 1978 World Cup in Argentina with an outstanding individual goal for Scotland against Holland but says both England and Scotland have lacked X-factor. Speaking at a charity golf day at Oakmere Golf Club in aid of Blesma, which supports limbless veterans, featuring a number of fellow Forest legends, Gemmill said: “England have been very quiet so far. For them, it’s all about gelling which I expect them to do because they have very good players. “Looking at them, it’s as if they have never played with each other before.” Gemmill believes manager Gareth Southgate needs to abandon his policy of playing two defensive midfield players. “Having just one player in front of the back four would help the side going forward,” he said. “As for Jack Grealish, he is the type of player who can be exceptional but other times doesn’t contribute as much.” Ominously, Gemmill rates Germany as one of his top tips, alongside Italy and France. But he doesn’t believe Scotland have made big strides despite qualifying for their first major tournament finals for 23 years. “I thought they were woeful against the Czech Republic, then improved against England when perhaps if they had taken an early chance, they might have held on to win. “I thought Scotland had every chance against Croatia who aren’t the team they were.” Gemmill played alongside former Reds Duncan McKenzie and Willie Young in the charity event. Other former Forest stars taking part in a day organised by Superstar Speakers included Des Walker, Gary Mills, Henry Newton, John O’Hare, Kenny Burns and Larry Lloyd. Notts County were strongly represented by Les Bradd and Ian McCulloch. For more information about BLESMA please click this link https://blesma.org/ Archie Gemmill is one of the Nottingham Forest Legends set to appear at our Miracle Men Reunion in December 2021 For More information please click Here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nottingham-forest-7980-european-cup-winners-teams-40th-anniversary-event-tickets-145515582023 Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Mark Hughes. 5 Greatest Goals

    Manchester United have had some legendary strikers throughout their history, but for a player who Sir Alex Ferguson said ‘...Was the best big game player I have ever known’ – Mark Hughes has to be recognized as one of the all-time legends of Man United Sparky started his footballing life, straight out of school with Manchester United in 1980 – but it was not until 1983 that he made his first team debut. With 121 appearances and 47 goals between 1983 and 1986 the footballing world took notice of the young Welshman and he was sold to Barcelona for £2 million. By 1988 Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge and decided he wanted Hughes back in his team – as he started on building his incredible era at Old Trafford and bought him back for £1.8 million. Staying with the club until 1995 Mark Hughes made an impressive 353 appearances and scored 116 goals. ***CHECK OUT OUR MARK HUGHES MEMORABILIA HERE*** The big Welshman is a striker in the classic mould of the English game, big, strong and fast with the ability to read a game instantly and deliver thunderbolt volleys and glorious match winning performances when the team needed – in short, he was perfect for Manchester United This blog celebrates some of the most important and our favourite goals in the career of Mark Hughes 1. Cup Winners Cup Final 1991, Manchester United Vs Barcelona, May 15th 1991, Feijenoord Stadion, Rotterdam This was an important result for English Football. Manchester United won the European Cup winners Cup to make a positive statement for English Football. This was the first year since 1985 that English teams were allowed in the competition since the Heysel disaster This was also the first European Cup for Manchester United in 23 years and Sir Alex’s first European Trophy for the club Mark Hughes was the man on the score sheet, scoring both the goals that secured the win. After his brief and unsuccessful spell with Barca, its not impossible to imagine that Hughes had it in mind to prove to the club and the world exactly what the Spanish Giants had missed out on. Scoring in quick succession with goals in the 67th and 74th minutes. Firstly, by ensuring that Steve Bruce’s header on goal was in the back of the net and secondly with a fantastic strike from the edge of the area. Mark Hughes placed himself in Manchester United history in that game alone We Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Cup Winners Cup with some very special events in 2021 Click the image to find out more 2. FA Cup Semi-Final 1994, Manchester United Vs Oldham, April 10th 1994, Wembley Stadium, London Everyone’s favourite Mark Hughes goal. Once again Sparky had the knack for scoring important goals for Manchester United and this Semi-final volley was the perfect example of his ability to step up to the occasion for Manchester United 1994 has gone down in history as one of the most important years in modern Manchester United History, Sir Alex Ferguson was starting to position himself as one of the nations greatest ever managers and his Manchester United team were on course to win an historic Premier League and FA Cup double. But Oldham Athletic were putting up a fight that would have halted United’s FA Cup ambitions There was a deadlock for the majority of the game with both teams failing to get on the scoresheet. Which meant the match would go to a replay, as the game went into extra time, in the 106th minute Lactics legend Neil Pointon scored and but Oldham on course for an FA Cup final having beaten the mighty Man Utd who were the reigning Champions and on course for back-to-back titles The clock was ticking and the FA Cup very nearly gave another giant killing upset – but Mark Hughes was never phased by the pressure and one minute before the final whistle went hammered home an incredible volley to level the score and secure a replay, keeping United in the competition. In the replay Manchester United defeated Oldham with a comfortable 4-1 win and went on to win the FA Cup for the first time since 1990 3. FA Cup Final 1990, Manchester United Vs Crystal Palace, 12th May 1990, Wembley Stadium, London The 1990 FA Cup would prove to be the first (of many) trophies that Sir Alex Ferguson would win as manager of Manchester United, and true to form it was Mark Hughes placing his name on the score sheet and keeping United in the running for the trophy Palace scored first in the 18th minute, putting Manchester United on the backfoot early on. Captain Marvel Bryan Robson leveled the score in the 35th with a bullet header. In the 62nd minute Mark Hughes put United ahead for the first time in the match and on the road to winning the trophy. 10 minutes later Crystal Palace sub Ian Wright (who had only been on the pitch for 3 minutes) scored to once again bring the score line level and then again, as the game went into extra time Wright scored in the 92nd minute to give Palace the lead once more and it seemed like they would be winning their first ever FA Cup from their first ever FA Cup final appearance. Manchester United pressured for the remainder of the game with Palace keeper Nigel Martyn producing an incredible save against Paul Ince’s attempt on goal – but it was Mark Hughes in the 116th minute running onto Ince’s through ball and scoring a typically outstanding and important goal to end the game in a 3-3 draw This led to an FA Cup Final replay, where Lee Martin scored the second goal of his Manchester United career and finally secured a trophy for the era of Sir Alex Ferguson 4. Manchester United Vs Liverpool, 18th October 1993, Old Trafford, Manchester One of the biggest rivalries in British sport with the two most successful teams in English Football history. This is the stage where legends are made and big game players shine. It has been said many times that players can struggle to ‘cross the white line’ and step up to play for Manchester United. Mark Hughes is someone that personifies the never say die, match winning spirit of the Red Devils It was looking like this clash was going in Liverpool’s favour as Don Hutchinson opened scoring at 23 minutes, followed by Ian Rush just before the break at 44 minutes. 2-0 down with only 12 minutes to go Mark Hughes runs onto to Clayton Blackmores pass, sees Bruce Grobbelaar off his line and with one touch, just outside the area, lobs the keeper to put Manchester United back in the game. 2-1 and in the 90th minute Hughes strikes again and earns a vital point to Manchester United and prevents bragging rights going to the bitter rivals of Liverpool 5. World Cup Qualifier, Wales Vs Spain, 30th April 1985, The Racecourse, Wrexham This has to be the greatest goal in the career of Mark Hughes, in a career marked with incredible volley and powerful strikes, choosing the best is a difficult task, but when representing his country against the runners-up of Euro 1984 Mark Hughes showed exactly what made him a formidable striker Wales had a new and exciting strike partnership in Ian Rush and Mark Hughes and this was the night they proved what they could do. Ian Rush scored in the 44th and 88th minutes, but it was the wonder strike from Sparky that got the world talking. In the 53rd minute Hughes delivered what can only be described as a ‘mid air scissor kick’ lifting his body in the air and hammering home the ball past the Spanish keeper Spain didn’t stand a chance Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Blesma Charity Golf Day with the Nottingham Forest Legends

    British Limbless Ex Servicemen Association Charity Golf Day sponsored by Superstar Speakers 24th June 2021 | Oakmere Golf Course | 10am The History of Blesma Superstar Speakers are proud to be able to sponsor the BLESMA Charity Golf Day and help raise some funds for the British ex-Service men and women who have suffered life-changing limb loss or the use of a limb, an eye or loss of sight in the honorable service of our country. BLESMA was founded in the aftermath of the First World War when 40,000 soldiers came home having lost limbs in one of the most brutal wars in World history Since 1920 (B)LESMA has had a constant need to help support Ex Servicemen and Women who have needed the support froM the charity, after suffering during the wars From World War 2 veterans (were over 12 thousand British Men and Women lost limbs) through to veterans from the Falklands and The Troubles in Northern Ireland and Ireland through to veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan These brave men and women who have suffered life changing situations deserve the support to deal with the loss of a limb and /or sight as they return to civilian life Over it 100 years BLESMA has received Royal Patronage, built care homes for the wounded and constantly worked and campaigned to ensure veterans receive a better quality of care and that war widows are supported with pensions To make a donation to BLESMA click here https://blesma.org/donate/ The Importance of Sport Sport is a big part of BLESMA and a great why to help rehabilitate the veterans physically and mentally. The first BLESMA golf day took place in 1963 and Superstar Speakers are delighted to be able to be a part of this rich history. Over the decades BLESMA members have held a 'National Sports Day' in 1961 the revolutionary approach to rehabilitation shown at the games has since then grown to redefine the perception of disability , taken part in the 1981 cross channel yacht race (which included a WW2 veteran), even winning a gold medal in sailing for Team GB in the 1996 Paralympic games. BLESMA members have continually represented Great Britain in the Paralympics and Invictus games, with the soldiers mentality of representing their country still alive and well The 2021 BLESMA Golf Tournament This years Charity Golf Day costs ÂŁ70 and includes a breakfast cob and tea / coffee, a round of golf, two course meal and entry into the mini competitions, which include longest drive, closest to the pin, landing on the green and closest to the rope drive The day starts at 10am and teams will be in groups of 4. There will be some of BLESMA's top golfers and Nottingham Forest legends including Des Walker, Kenny Burns, Gary Mills with more to come... Click Here for more Nottingham Forest News... Please contact Tomwaring123@mail.com or inbox us to join this amazing day out! Donations to the charity can be arranged so please inbox for details and show your love for our amazing servicemen and women. For more information on BLESMA and their hard work visit their website here https://blesma.org/ Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Gary Mills. The Youngest Ever European Cup Winner

    In 1979 Brian Clough led Nottingham Forest to the heights of European Football and won the European Cup. Cloughie joined 'unfashionable' Nottingham Forest in 1975 and was told by previous manager Dave Mackay 'You will never win anything here'. Forest were currently adrift in 13th of the old second division and not considered a progressive club with a bright future - Brian Clough, however, never did what was expected. Forest won promotion into the first division, the won the league and qualified for Europe, broke the British transfer record and made the first ever £1 million signing, won the European Cup in 1979, then won it AGAIN the following year in 1980. Forest hold a unique record in Europe of having 2 trophies for every 10 games they played - and since the rules of the competition have changed this is a record that will never be beaten! Its no wonder that 4 decades later they are still referred to as the Miracle Men. Another of the records that was set in that golden era of Nottingham Forest was by a young man from Northampton named Gary Mills. Mills was an emerging talent in the Nottingham Forest squad and played a part in the 1979 European Campaign making him the youngest ever man to win a European Cup Medal at the age of 17 years and 201 days. Another record that stands to this day... Gary Mills autobiography 'Young Millsy' is due for release very soon - telling his story in football that started in his teenage years at Nottingham Forest and continues to this day. We welcomed the man himself to Superstar Speakers HQ for a signing session and interview as he prepares to tell his life story and found out 5 interesting facts about Young Millsy Gary Mills is one of the few men to have won the European Cup and played in the Premier League The European Cup was founded in 1955 and then re-branded in 1992 as the Champions League. English Football's first division was re-branded as the Premier League in 1992 - therefore there is a very small number of men who can claim that they have played in the Premier League AND won the European Cup (not the Champions League). The list consists of Ian Rush, Bruce Grobbelaar, Ruud Gullit, Paulo Futre, Trevor Francis, Viv Anderson. Gary Mills can be added to this illustrious list as he Captained Leicester City into the Premier League via the playoffs in 1994 and lead the Foxes back into the top flight of English Football 2. He continued to play football 30 years after winning the 1979 European Cup Gary Mills was still playing football at the ripe old age of 47 for Tamworth. Mills had always believed in fitness and looking after his physical well being (which must have been a challenge growing up in the Nottingham Forest team of the 1970s!) but it has served him well and he continued lacing up the boots until he was nearly 50 years old. Mills retired from professional football in 1996, due to an injury, and focused on his blossoming career as a manager, but he was always listed as a player manager and brought his own level of skill and experience to the teams he managed up until 2010 when he finally hung up his boots. We asked Gary Mills all about Nottingham Forest's new crop of young talent - Find out what he said here by clicking the image 3. He is still in football and a respected manager in the lower leagues. In 2020 Gary Mills returned to his home county of Northamptonshire and took the management position of Northern Premier League's Corby Town. Having learnt the art of management from the master Brian Clough throughout hsi teenage years - management was the obvious path for Mills, who was regularly questioned about the great man during his playing days at Leicester City. (on David Pleat) 'he would ask me at times 'what would Cloughie do?' I've got to be honest though at times David overplayed and over complicated things, without having the real desire to win games in an ugly way when you needed to' Many players who played under the brilliance of Brian Clough continued his legacy and stepped into the cut throat world of football management. including Martin O'Neill, Stuart Pearce, Trevor Francis, David Needham, Viv Anderson, Frank Clark and John Robertson In his career as a manager Gary Mills has the Southern Football league Midland Division with Grantham in 1998, Conference North with Tamworth in 2009 and brought York City to the Conference play offs in 2012 winning the FA Trophy in 2012 and 2017. He was recognized as Conference North Manager of the year in 2009 and Non-League manager of the year 2014. When asked about his management style he simply says "My philosophy is to play football with the ball on the deck, to play attacking football, to be disciplined with and without the ball". He prefers to employ a 4–3–3 formation, explaining it allows his teams to play entertaining football and makes them hard to beat, and it brought him success when at Tamworth and York. He has stuck with this formation despite charges from some of being tactically stubborn, saying: "I'm not going to change the way my teams play, the systems. I've not even had a thought about that" Cloughie would be proud Check out our Exclusive Gary Mills Memorabilia by clicking the image below 4. He is a Leicester City Legend Despite his success and reputation with the miracle men of Nottingham Forest, Gary Mills is fondly remembered as a legend at Leicester City. Making 232 appearances and scoring 16 goals for the Foxes between 1989 and 1995. After signing from Notts County, Mills established himself in the first team and his never say die attitude and commitment to the club earned him his popularity with the fans. He was named player of the year 1990. In 1992 we set a Leicester City club record of playing in ALL 62 fixtures and scoring 7 goals. He was named Leicester Player of the Year once again. It was this season that Leicester made the second division playoffs. Leicester continued to succeed and achieve under the captaincy of Gary Mills as they reached the first division play offs in 1993 and then again in 1994, finally returning to top flight football. 5. He scored for a goal for England at Wembley and a try for England at Twickenham in the same year. At 15 years old in 1977 (only 2 years before the Nottingham Forest European Cup victory) Gary Mills was a genuine young sporting prodigy. Representing his country in both Football and Rugby. Obviously Gary decided that football was the path he would take in his career and he spent his teenage years at Nottingham Forest under the guidance of Brian Clough. ever the student Mills remembers Brian Clough 'turning him into a man' saying "you might as well learn at 14 as at 24 son?" Despite being a two time European Champion before he was old enough to drink and a representative of England Schoolboys in both Football and Rugby, Gary Mills never got to represent England at a senior level only earning 2 caps for England Under 18s and another 2 for the Under 21s Gary Mills' autobiography 'Young Millsy' is coming soon! Gary Mills is one of the Nottingham Forest Legends that are scheduled to appear at our huge Miracle Men reunion - find out more here by clicking the image Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Paul Scholes. He Scores Goals

    The Best Manchester United Goals From Paul Scholes “I have no hesitation in putting a name to the embodiment of all that I think is best about football. It’s Paul Scholes” Sir Bobby Charlton Ahead of our two evenings with the Manchester United legend, we look back at some of his greatest goals for Manchester United. ***For more information on An Evening With Paul Scholes Click the images below*** He is your favourite footballers’ favourite footballer, one of the most naturally talented and skillful players to ever grace the pitch at Old Trafford. There has never been, or ever will be again another Paul Scholes. A member of the iconic Class of 92, Treble winner in 1999 and Champions League winner again in 2008. Scholes played for Manchester United between 1993 and 2013 making 718 appearances and scoring 155 goals. In that time, he won 11 Premier League titles (which is just 2 behind Ryan Giggs record of 13) 3 FA Cups, 2 EFL Cups, 5 Community Shields, 2 Champions Leagues and the Intercontinental cup and FIFA club world Cup. He is the 2nd most decorated Manchester United player of all time In this blog we look at our choice of the top 6 Paul Scholes goals. Scholes had the ability to score incredible goals from the middle of the park, a thunderous strike from outside the area would change the dynamic of games and with his superior footballing brain would see the opportunity before anyone else ***Check out our Paul Scholes Memorabilia - Click the Image to shop*** Here is our six favourite Paul Scholes Goals for Manchester United 1. Bradford 1999 / 2000 Everyone’s favourite Scholes goal. People claim that Mark Hughes was the greatest at scoring volleys for Manchester United, but with this sublime effort Paul Scholes told the world he was in the same bracket as the iconic Welshman. 99/2000 would be another Premier League winning year for Manchester United and fresh off the back of the Treble the season before, Manchester United were still one of the greatest teams in the world, going on an 11-game winning run during the season. It was this 4-0 victory at Bradford where Scholes (once again) proved his natural ability for an awe-inspiring goal. A thunderous volley that secured another win for Man United After a pin point cross from David Beckham, Scholes hammers home a volley too quick even for the camera to follow. Bradford had no chance. 2. Aston Villa 2006 / 2007 Another volley from outside the area. One touch was all it took for Paul Scholes to further cement his name in history. From another title winning season in which Manchester United were building back up to the 2008 Champions League win – with the class of 92 generation becoming the elder statesmen of a new look Manchester United team – it was moments like this volley that proved the treble winning heroes still had what it took to be considered best in the world. Ryan Giggs crosses the ball into the area which ends up cleared from the box, high into the air and falling into the waiting space of Paul Scholes. Like a predator waiting to strike, Scholes sees the ball coming and rather than try and control it simply swings his right foot towards the oncoming ball and drives it straight through the melee in the box into the Aston Villa goal, with a cheeky bounce off the cross bar for good measure. One of the sweetest strikes of a ball we have ever seen –the players in the box throw their hands in the air in sheer amazement of this superb volley, Martin Tyler screams ‘HOW!’ on commentary – it looks even better in slow motion This is the beautiful game 3. Liverpool 1998 / 1999 The Treble winning season is when the class of 92 came of age. A glorious season in English football in which Manchester United were the best team in Europe, the Premier League was dominant across the globe and English Football was exciting. Manchester United Vs Liverpool is the biggest rivalry in English football. Two huge clubs each with a rich history, both having been dominate in the leagues and Europe. In a season in which Manchester United were firing on all cylinders this game would always have extra importance and passion attached to it. Could Liverpool get one over on their life long rivals and beat the best in Europe or would United defeat them to truly lay claim to being the biggest club in the country With 11 minutes to go Paul Scholes seizes his opportunity (this time from inside the box) and strikes cleanly from a ball across the penalty box from Andy Cole, that bypasses Dwight Yorke and goes from Scholes to the back of the net as United defeat Liverpool 2 -0 and march on towards football history 4. Middlesbrough 1999 / 2000 One of the greatest goals ever scored. Scholes has all the time and space he needs to deliver something special. From outside the area a light pass to the midfield master opens up so many opportunities. Will he dribble through the defence and work his way into the box? Will he create space for the rest of the team to create more scoring opportunities.? One thing you never do in football, which Boro found out at their peril – if give Paul Scholes time or space. Here he had both and only needed a split second to once again drive the ball into the back of the net Quite how he sees the path for the ball to travel through both the Boro and Man Utd teams is almost super human The way the ball curls into the goal is a thing of beauty 5. Everton 2002 / 2003 Another Paul Scholes wonder volley. The man makes it look easy scoring screamers like this that bounce off the underside of the crossbar. The beauty here is the flow of the game – Everton are defending against a pressing Manchester United, Scholes gets the ball and loses possession to an advancing Everton. Only for Manchester United to quickly win the ball back and turn the tide once again. The ball quickly ends up back at Scholes’s feet, who has to quickly turn pace from running towards his own goal to back into an attacking position. The speed of thought from back tracking to full on attack is lightning fast and after 2 touches to control the ball and then bring it into position Paul Scholes does what he does best. Score outstanding goals that win matches. Another world class goal and one of the most satisfying sounds as the ball cleanly hits the woodwork before resting in the back of the net 6. Barcelona 2008 One of the lifelong rivalries between two of the biggest clubs in Europe is Manchester United vs Barcelona. The two European giants have a habit of meeting each other in various competitions over the years. Famously the 1991 Cup Winners Cup final where Sir Alex Ferguson won his first European Trophy for Man United which was the last time Man Utd beat Barca until this game in the Champions League 2008. Scholes missed the Champions League final in the treble winning season and despite earning a medal for his work during the campaign, the opportunity to play for Manchester United in a Champions League final must have been something he wanted to achieve before he retired. United met Barca in the semi-final of the 2008 campaign and it was another perfect goal from Scholes who won his way into his first CL final. The only goal in the game, the goal that sent Manchester United into the Champions league final once again and a moment of Paul Scholes Magic had put them there Meet the Manchester United Legend at our TWO huge events in 2021 - click the image for more information Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Trevor Francis. More than a Million

    “There is no better player in the country than Trevor Francis” – Sir Alf Ramsey In 1979 Trevor Francis etched his name in history by becoming Britain’s first £1 million footballer, scoring the winning goal in the 1979 European Cup final for Nottingham Forest and having his name mentioned in the ‘Only Fools and Horse’ theme tune lyrics–yet there is more to this classy footballer than a record-breaking price tag and Trevor Francis Tracksuits 1. He is a Perfectionist Trevor Francis ‘likes things done right’ when writing his 2019 autobiography he had the help of writer Keith Dixon. In the foreword of the book Keith writes “Trevor arrived dead on time for our meeting, stating that he hated being late
I was aware of his attention to detail and desire to get things absolutely right, During the meeting Trevor made it clear that he was only prepared to embark on this project if we both agreed that the end product would be top quality – in other words the best book we could write” (Francis pg11) This is a mentality that Francis has had throughout his life and career which has led him to success as a player, manager and now with Francis Homes 2. Loyalty to Birmingham City Francis was born in Plymouth on 19th April 1954 – but he made his start in football over 200 miles away from home with Birmingham City FC, joining the youth team in 1969. By 1970 16-year-old Trevor Francis had broken into the first team and was causing a sensation at St Andrew’s – the bluenoses knew they had a special talent in their team and gave Trevor the nickname ‘Superboy’ Francis broke records with Birmingham, he was the youngest ever debutante in 1969 (vs Cardiff City) aged just 16 years and 139 days. On his 9th start for the team he scored 4 goals against Bolton Wanderers setting a record as the youngest person to score a hat-trick at 16 years and 307 days Attendance at St Andrew’s started to rise with Francis getting the attention of the general public as the Birmingham Mail reported “Many thousands of fans will go to St Andrew’s
for their first look at 16-year-old superkid Trevor Francis. It is a situation which looked impossible only a few weeks ago when attendances had tumbled to a worrying 13,000 with performances to match. Francis is the draw.” He even scored one of the greatest ever goals for Birmingham against QPR in 1976 Whilst many young talents see their first club as a stepping stone to greater things, Francis remained at Birmingham until 1979, spending 10 years with the club making 319 appearances and scoring 129 goals. He was so important to Birmingham that Manager Jim Smith put a record-breaking price on his head 3. The £1 Million Man? The first thing anyone says about Trevor Francis is “did you know he wasn’t actually a million pounds, Brian Clough made sure it was £1 less” – as one of his famous tactics to keep his players feet on the ground Whilst it is a great story and believable simply because its Brian Clough – the truth (as ever) is a lot more mundane. Including the league’s levy fees and additional costs involved the actual fee was over £1,150,000 which was a huge leap from the previous transfer record of £516,000 to pay for David Mills to go to West Brom from Middlesbrough The reality is Cloughies tactic to reduce the gravity of the situation was to turn up to the historic signing as if he had just been interrupted on his way to the squash court, racquet in hand! The fact this story persists is testament to the brilliance of Brian Clough and the incredible mark he left on English Football. It is worth noting that Clough and Francis had a positive relationship and when they both met in 1992 as managers of Forest and Sheffield Wednesday. With Wednesday 2 - 0 Cloughie approached the opposing dugout and said to Trevor ‘Young man, your team played well and were the better team today” – there was 20 minutes left! ( Francis p53) There will never be another Brian Clough 4. He scored the winning goal in the 1979 European Cup Final in his first ever game of European Football 30th May 1979 Trevor Francis headed in a goal that established himself as a Nottingham Forest icon and transformed the club into one of the nations ‘Big Clubs’. Nottingham Forest won the European Cup and were dubbed the ‘miracle men’ for having achieved what most believed to be impossible, after winning the domestic league the year before Whilst this is the moment that proved that Francis was worth every penny of that huge transfer fee – it was actually his first ever game in European football. Francis was ineligible to play in the competition until the semi-finals, but the genius of Brian Clough kept him out until the final. Ever the big game player Francis saw his opportunity to justify his position in the team and silenced any doubters. Ironically in the 1980 European Cup run Francis missed the final due to injury. He played more games without getting to a final in one year and played no games and got to a final in the previous one! 5. He might be the first player cautioned for faking an injury In the opinion of referee Norman Burtenshaw anyway. In a 1973 match between Sheffield United and Birmingham City, which was very important in regards to the relegation battle that year. In Norman’s 1973 book he states. “I am bending over them trying to break it up and his right-hander nearly hit me (not Francis). The nearest Sheffield Player said, ‘I never touched him, ref.’ I told him I could see that. I went to Francis and said ‘I am booking you for feigning injury. You could of got that other player sent off if I hadn’t been looking.’ Francis – Who had a brilliant game, incedently – said he didn’t agree” (Francis p231) Whether you believe Francis or Burtenshaw – Trevor’s overall record has 2 Yellow cards and one sending off, which in a 23 year playing career is commendable Trevor Francis is a legend in English Football, a true gentleman who is still passionate about the game. Whether you know him for his time as a talented teenager at Birmingham and a match winner at Forest, he also earned himself a regular position in the England team and after his playing career moved into broadcasting and management Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the top of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Father's Day Gift Ideas 2021

    Father's Day 2021 is just around the corner (Sunday June 20th) which means its time to treat your dad like the Superstar he is, with our selection of great Superstar Speakers gift ideas for Fathers day 2021 1. A Night Out What could be better than treating your dad to a night out, especially after the year we have all had. Time to get dressed up, have a few drinks and listen to some of the legends of sports tell hilarious stories of the golden days of English sports. Your first trip to the football with your dad is a rites of passage for most, so why not pay him back this Father's Day with a visit to one of our live events where you can meet and greet the Legends of Football, hear stories of their careers and behind the scenes tales and even get a picture of you and your dad with the legends themselves! We have events with legends of Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, Leeds, Nottingham Forest and Everton coming up in 2021 as well as special one man shows with Gary Neville, Ricky Hatton, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Frank Bruno and more to come! Treat your Dad to a long overdue night out - Check out our list of upcoming events by clicking the link below https://www.superstarspeakers.co.uk/shop 2. Trophy Photoshoot Treat your dad to a photoshoot of him (or you, the kids, his grand kids, anyone!) holding one of the iconic trophies of Football We have a replica Premier League Trophy, FA Cup, Champions League Trophy, World Cup and Jules Rimet available for a Father's Day photo shoot! Come along in your favourite Football shirt and get ready to pose with the trophy of your choice! If your Dad is a Manchester United Fan why not have a Treble winners photo with all three Trophies in the one picture? Or come along in a retro England 1966 shirt and replicate the World Cup win, just in time for the European Championships, perfect for a football mad dad We then edit the picture to place you in the stadium of your choice and print and frame the image for you to give to your dad, Upgrades available to larger photos, canvas and montages. Just ask on the day. Book your shoot via Facebook or email info@superstarphotography.co.uk 3. Signed Memorabilia Memorabilia is the perfect gift for a sports mad dad. Superstar Speakers are delighted to be the exclusive signing agents for Manchester United legend Bryan Robson and Nottingham Forest icon Stan Collymore. Whether its a signed football shirt from Dad's favourite team and his favourite era, or signed boxing gloves, football boots and balls or even stunning colour photographs of the iconic moments in sporting history, we have something for every dad available in our online store With our years of experience and contacts we have a large collection of signed memorabilia from icons of sport, all available in our online memorabilia store. Superstar Speakers work with football legends and therefore you can buy signed items with confidence that they are genuine - and a Certificate of Authenticity that is approved by AFTAL Father's Day 2021 is on Sunday June 20th - even if you can't see your dad, make sure you give him a call / facetime and cheer him up! Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

  • Bryan Robson Exclusive Announcement

    We are delighted to announce a working partnership with the legendary Man United Captain and Number 7 Bryan Robson One of Manchester United all time great players and captains has committed to a relationship with Superstar Speakers for the immediate future This deal means that Bryan Robson will only sign memorabilia for Superstar Speakers, giving our online Bryan Robson collection a wealth of unique memorabilia that is constantly updated and that you can guarantee is 100% authentic (we will also give every item a full AFTAL COA) As a legend of Manchester United and England we will be bringing a huge variety of memorabilia including Manchester United Shirts, England Shirts from his classic moments for club and country including from the Manchester United 1994 Double, the 1991 Cup Winners Cup and England World Cups and European Championships Hear the announcement from the man himself... We have been working with Bryan Robson over the last few years on various events and the Manchester United legends tours, and we will continue to do so as the tour heads into 2021) and we have always thrived on our professionalism and quality over those years - which helped us build a trust and relationship with the former Man United Captain. It is this trust that has paved the way for Robbo to put his name to Superstar Speakers. Bryan Robson on the 1991 Cup Winners Cup Anyone who saw Bryan Robson play will know he has high standards and only accepts the best, a quality that is instilled in the Manchester United Legends and that we will bring to this brand new partnership. Don't forget to keep up with our latest news and offers by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page Get social by following us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

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