90 seconds with Ian ‘Ninja’ Selley

Ian joined Arsenal as trainee in 1990 and it within just two years he’d progressed to first team action when he made his debut at Highbury against Blackburn Rovers. Under the stewardship of George Graham the defensive midfielder played a pivotal role in The Gunners, FA Cup and League Cup success in 1993. Silverware soon followed the year after when Ian lifted the European Cup Winners Cup and his impressive displays in the heart of the Arsenal midfield earned him three England U21 caps. At the FIFA World Youth Championships, Ian was part of the talented squad which finished third.

A serious injury and change of manager curtailed his career at Highbury and he was sold to Fulham in 1997. A second serious injury followed which limited his playing time in the professional game for Fulham, Wimbledon and Southend United. Ian continued his career in the non-league circuit for another 19 years and enjoyed a successful spell at Woking where he made 97 appearances and scored 19 goals. After retirement in 2022, he’s moved to the dugout where he continues his career in football.

90 seconds, 11 Q&A with Ian Selley:-

1) Childhood team growing up? Ace United FC from Surrey.
2) First pair of football boots owned? Classic Woolworths four stripes.
3) Did you have a nickname in the dressing room and how did you get it? It was either ‘Sells’ or ‘Ninja’ for my tackling ability.
4) Favourite teammate? That would have to be my Arsenal teammate Anders Limpar.
5) Toughest opponent? AC Milan defender Franco Baresi.
6) Which player do you wish you’d had the chance to play with? I would have loved to play alongside the King, Kenny Dalglish.
7) Favourite football shirt you’ve played in? The Arsenal 1994 hone shirt which we played the Cup Winners Cup final against Parma in was a classic.
8) Best stadium for atmosphere? The San Siro, Milan in the European Super Cup Final.
9) Biggest influence on your career? My dad, he drove me everywhere and Pat Rice at Arsenal.
10) Most prized possessions from your playing days? My FA Cup and League Cup winners medals from 1993 and my European Cup Winners Cup medal from 1994.
11) What keeps you busy these days? My football coaching academy ISPPA and being first team manager of non-league club Westfield FC. I also do some football commentary on Arsenal games and outside the game my two girls keep me busy.