Ben Foster Interview
How old were you when you first started playing football and did you always want to be a goalkeeper?
I joined a Sunday league team when I was about nine or ten and then I never wanted to be a goalkeeper, I wanted to be a left-winger.
Who was your biggest influence growing up?
My parents.
How do you prepare for a big game? Any tips on warmups?
My warm-up is basic and I’m not too bothered about the warm-up to be honest. I just do my usual routine – a few volleys, a few half-volleys, a bit of kicking, a bit of cross taking. Nothing in particular.
Are you superstitious or do you have any pre-game rituals?
No.
What techniques do you employ to keep focused for the full 90 minutes?
I just always try to stay positive with everything I do.
What goalkeeper gloves do you wear and how important is the right goalkeeper glove to you?
I wear Sells and they are hugely important. They are the best goalkeeper gloves in the market in my opinion.
What are the main features you look for in a goalkeeper glove?
Soft latex, comfortable to wear and obviously grippy.
Since you’ve started playing what is the most important bit of advice you’ve been given and by who?
We had a psychologist at Watford who always tried to keep you positive minded with everything you did and that’s the most important thing to me. Staying positive and confident with everything you do.
Do you have any career highlights so far?
My England debut or winning the Carling Cup.
Who is your toughest opponent? (Team and player)?
It would be Chelsea’s Didier Drogba a few years ago when I was at Watford. He scored a hat-trick that day and just bullied our defence.
Any advice you could give to young goalkeepers trying to break through?
Just keep going, I didn’t start until I was 18. I left school and got a job as a chef for two years so it’s never too late. Remain positive and have confidence.
Glad to see the site back up and running! Also glad Foster is still in the prem!