Loo and behold: A chance encounter
As cub reporters almost all journalists are told by savvy editors to keep their eyes and ears open for stories at all times and places. The skeptics amongst us dismiss it as useless advice, but on Friday they proved to be pearls of wisdom.
Heading back to the Soccer City Stadium media centre after a 1-1 draw between South Africa and Mexico in the World Cup opener, one was forced to make a detour to answer nature’s call. Upon exiting the men’s washroom one came across a gentleman — who was also making his way out of the loo — looking dapper in a tie and suit. On closer inspection it turned out to be Premier league club Everton’s manager David Moyes.
Of all the places to meet the man tipped to take over from fellow Scot Sir Alex Ferguson as manager of Manchester United, the men’s room would be las7t on the list. But, so it was.
Not letting this chance go to waste one went up to the Scotsman and asked if he would be willing to indulge in a brief questions and answers session.
“Where are you from,” said the 47-year-old. “India,” pat came the reply.
“Oh, that’s where all the Premier League clubs are heading,” said Moyes, whose Merseyside rivals Liverpool are among the clubs that have invested in the sub-continent. “Sure, fire away,” he said.
One of Moyes’ wards, Steven Pienaar, was in action for the Bafana Bafana.
On his performance, he said, “We have to remember a player like Steven sets the tone for the entire team. He’s vital to how South Africa play. I think he had a good outing. He’s a player blessed with great deal of talent, but he’s also one of the most hard-working and professional players I’ve come across.”
With a host of big names, including Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, in the race to sign the South African who was voted Everton’s Player of the Year last season, Moyes’ is biggest concern is holding on to the diminutive midfielder. “I hope we are able to hang on to Steven,” he said.
Before bidding adieu, Moyes informed that he would be at Ellis Park for the match between Argentina and Nigeria — who have three Everton players in defender Joseph Yobo and frontmen Victor Anichebe and Yakubu Aiyegbeni.
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