20(one) questions with... Paul Linwood

Paul Linwood is an ex-professional central defender who signed for Trafford during 2017/18 pre-season. Having started his career at Tranmere Rovers (then in League 2), he went on to make his name at Chester City (also then of league 2) where he was named player of the season in 2008 and then became the club captain the following year. Further stints at Grimsby, Fleetwood, Chester (non-league) and Salford, where he joined just as the class of '92 began their revolution, have provided Paul with plenty of experience and know how (as well as a cracking sense of humour) to Trafford's dressing room. 

Paul Linwood during his second spell at Chester City

1. So, apparently you're Trafford FC's Mr funny... what's your best joke?

Why did the pasty cross the road? Because he was meetin potato.

2. In your absence, who takes care of team morale?

Got to be Chris Palmer, the lad is crazy. He normally gets up at 6:30 every morning to go to work, the other day he hit the snooze button and got up at quarter to 7. 

3. There seems to be a real good vibe in the squad at the moment. Who or what's that down to?

The lads here actually get on which helps and there is a really good team spirit. Apart from Lee Neville there are none of the lads that I dislike.

4. Are we gonna get another season out of you?

I very much doubt it, too old and slow.

5. How old are you really? Trafford FC website claims 29 but there are rumours you are much older.

Haha someone has got that really wrong. I am 28*.

6. Another rumour was you retired last season. How did you end up joining Trafford?

I have actually retried about 4 times now over the years. My 6 year old William trains with Trafford and wanted to watch his old man play a few times. Also, I knew the manager and Shukes (god rest his soul), and was impressed by the professionalism and want to go out on a high.

7. In light of what happened on Saturday at Colwyn, how much of a concern is it when the advertising boards are so close to the pitch? Has it ever been an issue before?

I have never experienced anything like it previously but yes, I feel it is a massive issue as realistically, that incident could have been catastrophic so something needs to be done.

8. What is your pre match routine?

Be sober.

9. How many keep ups can you do... what's your record?

Definitely into double figures now.

10. Best player you've ever played against?

Okocha for Bolton

11. And with?

Jamie Vardy

12. Team supported as a kid?

Liverpool, breaks my heart that I now live in Manchester and my lad has a Man United kit.

13. Favourite music/band?

Favourite band, good question. Has to be elastic

14. What was your time at Salford like and how involved were the class of 92?

Loved every minute of it, great project that is going from strength to strength. All of the lads are heavily involved and very passionate, I have no doubt they will reach the football league.

15. Favourite TV show?

Not a big TV fan, Mrs made me watch Scandal though and loved it.

16. As a defender, who do you think would be harder to mark... Ronaldo or Messi?

Messi I think, although I think both would have a good day.

17. Favourite non-league ground?

Trafford, love the atmosphere and the people and my family and kids love it. Pitch is ok too Foxy.

18. Biggest achievement in football?

Think just playing league football for as long as I did.

19. Favourite sport other than football?

Boxing

20. All time sporting hero?

Shiraz

And last but not least... nominate someone for next month's 20 questions.

Jack Dorney

*After further research, Paul Linwood may or may not actually be 28.

A massive thanks to Linny, a top lad with a wicked sense of humour 😄. Good luck for the rest of the season... we also hope you manage to go out on a high. #playoffs #promotion