Lee Howey - Q&A
Living now: Seaton, County Durham
Born: 1969
Occupation now: Senior Corporate Sales Manager
As a youngster, who was the biggest influence on your career?
My dad.
How did you come to join Sunderland?
I was playing for Bishop Auckland and was spotted by John Carruthers. I had just come back from playing in Belgium.
How do you remember your Sunderland debut?
A warm April afternoon and I came on as a sub at Roker Park against Portsmouth. We won 4-1 but I only touched the ball once!
What was your most memorable match as a Sunderland player?
Playing against the Mags at St James Park - when there wasn't supposed to be any Sunderland supporters there!
And the worst?
My full debut at Derby. Down to ten men after only 10 minutes. We lost 5-0.
Which do you consider your best goal for Sunderland?
Everyone says my header against the Boro but I will always remember my first at home against Birmingham.
We won 1-0.
Who was the best player you player alongside at Sunderland?
Chris Waddle - in that short spell, he had created everything.
Who was the best you played against?
Eric Cantona - massive.
What’s the greatest moment of your playing career?
Winning the Championship in 1995.
Who do you rate as the best manager you player under?
Reidy with Bobby Saxo.
What was the funniest incident you recall during a game?
Ordy's celebration after scoring his first goal against Grimsby. He went NUTS!
What was the best part of being a professional footballer?
The Lads, and being part of something really special.
And the worst?
Getting injured, and now feeling the consequences.
Looking back at your playing career, any regrets?
Leaving Sunderland.
What did you do as your playing career ended?
I work in Corporate Sales for a US Bank.
What are doing these days?
as above.
What’s the most important thing in your life at present?
My wife & family - they always come first.
Any other comment?
I had a truly amazing time being a pro, but the pride I get from having played for Sunderland will be with me forever.
Favourites
Team (as a kid) - Sunderland
Boyhood footballing idol - Gary Rowell
Best friend in football - Steve Howard (Leicester)
Favourite ground (other than Roker) - Highbury
Favourite current premiership player - Rooney
Favourite current premiership manager - Ferguson
Singer - Paul Weller
Film star - Daniel Day Lewis
Film - Lord of the Rings Trilogy
TV programme - Match of the Day
Past-time (except football) - Golf & the local pub quiz!
Food - Italian
Holiday - Australia (Sydney)
If you could meet one person in the world, who would it be?
Ranulph Feinnes - Super Human!
