I have a terrific job that has given me many possibilities.
I have met both President Clinton and President Obama. Tom Cruise flew me in his chopper. I’ve dined with kings,
lords, sirs, and Oscar-winning actresses.
I’ve watched the Boston Red Sox with Stephen King. I threw out the ceremonial first pitch in Yankee Stadium.
The nicest part, however, was being invited to meet Gordon Cowans at Villa Park.
He gave me a stadium tour and we chatted all afternoon. He was witty, modest, and a very kind guy.
I cherish the recollection because I believe he was the best player we’ve ever had, a truly world-class talent, and no
Villan made me happier to watch. I was pleased to have the opportunity to tell him that.
So, when I had to choose a player for a Q&A, I naturally chose him, and I’m pleased he agreed to participate.
Lee Child: You’ve been going to the club since you were 12 years old. Did you consider going anyplace else as a young
pro, or were you completely committed to the Villa?
GORDON COWANS: I was always meant to come to Villa.
When I was nine or ten years old, a club scout watched me play for the Mansfield District schools team, and the club
invited my school team to Villa Park for a game against Mansfield Town in the old Third Division.
After that, I played for Stanley Star, Villa’s junior team.
The club had recently purchased a hostel where the younger players stayed.
My mother ran it, and my father was the kit man, so it was very much a family event.
When I was 12, Arsenal expressed an interest in me, but I was determined to join Villa.
Lee Child: Do you recall your first game?
GORDON COWANS: I remember it clearly.
I came on as a substitute against Manchester City when I was 17.
Just after I entered, City had a corner on the left, and I was instructed to cover the far post.
The ball spun into the air as it entered the six-yard box, and Asa Hartford hooked it over my head and into the top
corner.
We had already conceded a goal before I even touched the ball!
