90 seconds with Alan ‘Tommo’ Thompson

Born on December 22, 1973, in Newcastle upon Tyne, Thompson’s journey in football began with his hometown club, Newcastle United where he emerged through the youth ranks. Despite a near fatal accident during his youth days, Thompson fought back from potential career ending injuries to sign professional terms with the Magpies in 1991 before making his debut in November against Swindon Town. Under the stewardship of Ossie Ardiles he made 20 first team appearances for the Toon in a struggling side that narrowly avoided relegation. The arrival of Kevin Keegan in February 1992 inhibited Alan’s first team opportunities as new arrivals to the squad helped Keegan’s entertainers to the the Division one title in 1993.

Newcastle’s loss was Bolton Wanderers gain as the talented midfielder moved across from the North East to the North West for just £250k which turned out to be a bargain for Trotters boss Bruce Rioch. During his five seasons at Burnden Park & The Reebok Stadium, he helped Bolton Wanderers gain promotion to the Premier League on two occasions whilst also scoring the only goal for Bolton in the League Cup Final defeat to Liverpool in 1995. He made 198 appearances during his time in Lancashire, scoring an impressive 42 goals from midfield.

The impressive form attracted the attention of John Gregory of Aston Villa who parted with £4.5m to bring the left footed dynamo to Villa Park. He continued to impress as a midfielder and was known for his accurate passing and set-piece expertise. He made 58 appearances in the claret and blue of Villa scoring 5 goals before heading back up North to Scotland to join Martin O’Neill’s all conquering Celtic side in a £2.75m deal. During his six years in Paradise, Thompson lifted the SPL title four times, the Scottish Cup three times and the Scottish League Cup once. He also helped the Hoops to reach the UEFA Cup final in 2003 and won his one and only England cap in 2004 against Sweden.

Later in his career, Thompson joined Leeds United in 2007 after a successful loan spell. Despite the club’s challenging times, he remained a reliable figure in midfield. His experience and leadership qualities were invaluable during Leed’s efforts to regain top-flight status.

90 seconds, 11 Q&A with Alan Thompson:-

1) Childhood team growing up? Newcastle United.
2) First pair of football boots owned? A pair of Patrick, Kevin Keegan’s.
3) Did you have a nickname in the dressing room and how did you get it? Tommo.
4) Favourite teammate? Too many to mention.
5) Toughest opponent? It would probably have to be these five:- Roy Keane, Patrick Viera, Ronaldinho, Dennis Bergkamp and Cafu.
6) Which player do you wish you’d had the chance to play with? Alan Shearer
7) Favourite football shirt you’ve played in? 100% the Celtic Hoops.
8) Best stadium for atmosphere? I’d have to say Anfield.
9) Biggest influence on your career? My dad.
10) Most prized possessions from your playing days? My medals and my England cap.
11) What keeps you busy these days? I’ve put my feet up and I’m enjoying life.