FEBRUARY PLAYER OF THE MONTH INTERVIEW:

MICHAEL WHELAN

Full Name: Michael Roel Whelan

Any Nicknames: Peperami Man, Kewell, Handsome, Dutch-boy, Rude-boi, Whippet Whelan, Muscles from Brussels

Favourite Football Club: Liverpool

Favourite Food: Probably chicken fajitas, or a good curry. Chilli Con Carne’s always good as well, spag bol and probably Ben’s (Whelan) bangers and mash dish.

Favourite Music Artist: I couldn’t possibly say…too many. Counting Crows, Dashboard Confessionals, Chilli Peppers.

1. Congratulations on your first Play of the Month Mike, despite it being a few weeks ago – did you enjoy playing in those games?

I can’t actually remember any of the games. It was only two I played in that month I think. Anyway, it was good.

2. We are about to embark on a hectic Easter schedule of 6 games in 12 days. Do you think you and the rest of the Kings players will be able to cope?

I think we will do really well and play some of our best football. To make just a few predictions I think we’ll win 3, draw 2 and lose 1. Nath will score a bundle and Adam, after only being back for 1 game, will squeal like a girl and asked to be subbed because of a groin injury…Just a prediction though.

3. To an outsider, your most lethal quality seems to be your pace, but which footballing attributes do you feel are your strongest and which would you like to improve in the future?

I think my strongest attribute after my pace is probably being able to use both feet. My right foot is stronger, so I’d like to work on my crossing and shooting with my left foot.

4. Are the rumours true that you turned down a lucrative close season transfer to the J-league in Japan to remain at Kings?

This is true. The scouts were out at one of the games last season, I think it might have been the one where Morgan spooned a chance from 2 yards, to be honest, that could have been any of the last 10 games though… I guess there is some consistency to his football after all. I was planning on moving to Japan, but due to visa restrictions I couldn’t, maybe in the future, we’ll see.

5. Having played on both wings, in the centre of midfield and up front this season which position do you prefer to play and why?

I think I can be utilised more effectively on the wings, but I do really like playing in central midfield.

6. Do you have any personal highlights from the year?

After a slow start in front of goal I’m glad to have nearly got double figures now.

7. Which player have you enjoyed playing with the most this season?

Because I’ve moved around a lot in the team I’ve enjoyed playing with a lot of players. Loosemore at left back, Brodier at right back, Morgan up front, Marcus, Ben, Adam, Mike, Scholes, Tendai, Nathan, Dave, Euan, Matt… most players really.

8. Have you ever yelled “Finish me off you wimp” or has it ever been said “Mike Whelan – he’s a bit of an animal?”

Never. I’ll have to try and get those famous lines into our next match, frighten the opposition.

9. Who do you think will come out on top between Minty’s Magicians and Crane’s Crusaders in the big end of season Battle of the Titans clash?

You haven’t told me the teams yet, so I wouldn’t have a clue. If it was just those two I’d probably say neither.

10. Finally, how would you summarise Kings AFC’s first season?

Slow start, but getting stronger with every game.

Manager’s comments:

I’ve gotta say Mike, that right from the early days of Kings AFC, your decision to come and play for me brought probably the biggest smile to my face. As an attacking player you can be absolutely devastating and defenders hate to play against you. You have an incredible ability to get to the ball, that split second quicker than the opposition, which creates chance after chance for us. It is also no coincidence that our collective form has got better as your personal form has really improved as well. As much as I want you to go to Japan and do what your being called too, I’m also delighted you’ll be around next year. Well done buddy.

Interview Questions by Steve Wilson

Close this window