England Debut

12 October 2011

An Exclusive interview with Westminster City’s own Emmanuel Sonupe fresh from his England under-16’s debut…

Wilson Weaver: What were your thoughts during the national anthem?
Emmanuel Sonupe: I wasn’t nervous. I was thinking of how I was going to play, my roles, set pieces. I was imagining scoring, all the good things, and no negatives: Trying to enjoy it!
WW: How did you rate your efforts?
ES: Worked hard enough, but didn’t demand or get the ball enough. Disappointed, but next match I’m getting on the ball.
WW: What were the Irish like?
ES: There were some tough handshakes after the anthem.
WW: Who was the best player on the pitch?
ES: Probably Reuben Loftus-Cheek.
WW: When did you know you could make it?
ES: I was 10 and playing for Bethwin FC. I thought I was quite good and got scouted for Tottenham. That’s when I realised it was serious. I focused as I got older, improved and realised it could be a career because I wasn’t the smartest in school.
WW: Who has inspired you?
ES: Ashley Young. At 16 he wasn’t offered a scholarship at Watford, so paid for one himself. He worked hard and that got him to Aston Villa, then Manchester United and England. Luckily I got my scholarship, but I don’t take it for granted, it’s not just a game and the rewards can be good.
WW: In five year’s time Emmanuel Sonupe is…
ES: I’ll be 21 and wouldn’t mind playing for the Tottenham 1st team even though I support Arsenal!
WW: Will we be seeing you play for England in Brazil 2014?
ES: Hopefully, we’ll see!

Wilson Weaver - Year 13