Fraizer Campbell: Talentspotter
"Most embarrassing moment? Every year the young players at Man United have to impersonate one of the senior players. I went as David Bellion"
Nickname
Nothing too imaginative – just Camms or Fraz.
Team supported
I was more into supporting players than teams. I started by supporting John Barnes and watched out for him. When he retired I became a big Andy Cole fan.
Strengths
I’m quick, my movement’s good and my finishing isn’t bad either.
Weaknesses
Obviously I try and work on improving everything in my game, but my left foot needs most work.
I play a bit like...
I’ve been told I play like Samuel Eto’o. We both have pace, are good finishers and playon the shoulder of the last defender.
Highlights
Playing at Wembley with Hull in the Championship play-off final – and winning. It’s something I’ll never forget.
Lowlights
Losing a youth team cup final against Manchester City.
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Best player played with
Paul Scholes. The stuff he does in training is amazing; he’s consistently the best. Sometimes he’ll do things like only use the outside of his foot for 15 minutes during a match – but even then he’ll be the best passer on the pitch!
Toughest opponent
I only played against him in a reserve match, but Olof Mellberg was tough – he didn’t have any problem with coming through the back of you. I came away with plenty of bruises, but I managed to score so it was all right.
If I could play alongside any player...
It would have to be Lionel Messi. As an attacker, he can do everything: score, create, dribble. The fact that he’s only 20 is unbelievable. As a striker, playing up front with him would make my job a lot easier.
Biggest practical joker
Rio Ferdinand and Wazza. They’re always up to something. Luckily I haven’t been on the end of any of their pranks, yet. Let’s hope it stays that way.
Biggest influence
That would have to be my dad. He’s always been there on and off the pitch and always kept me grounded. He’s always looked out for me and he’s still doing it.
Tunes
R’n’B is my favourite type of music but I like a bit of Bassline too. My favourite artists are Jagged Edge.
Wheels
I’ve got an Audi A3; I’m replacing it with a Range Rover!
Holidays
I like Marbella, but if I could go anywhere it would be Jamaica.
Chicks
I’m not allowed to say Jessica Alba? Why not? OK, on holiday, I saw a girl that looked exactly like her. If I’m not allowed Jessica Alba, I’ll go for her lookalike!
Flicks
White Chicks. I’m not a big fan of serious films; I much prefer comedy. I like most things by the Wayans brothers.
TV programme
What, I’m not allowed My Wife and Kids either?! OK, my second favourite programme would have to be Prison Break.
Tell us something we don’t know about you
When I was 11, I played in the same Huddersfield youth team as Cameron Jerome. For a couple of years before that, we played for different teams. When our teams came up against each other it’d be a competition between me and Cameron to score goals. Whoever scored the most, their team would win.
Describe yourself in five words
Hard-working, honest, relaxed, easy-going, smiley.
Best advice given
Work hard and stay positive every day.
What did you buy with your first pay packet?
A £10 top-up card for my phone!
Most embarrassing moment
Every year the young players at United have to try and make the other players laugh at the Christmas party by impersonating one of the senior players. When it was my turn I went as David Bellion, then I had to impersonate him. But that wasn’t as bad as the time I had to get up on the table after training and sing an Usher song. Now that was embarrassing.
In five years time...
I’ll be playing regularly in the Premier League and, hopefully, for the England team.
Interview: Hitesh Ratna. From the August 2008 issue of FourFourTwo.
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