just been sent this by a chum. hope it's true.

 

During his time at the Riverside a story about Alan Boksic circulated around Teesside.

 

In a classic Armani suit-and bovver-boots combination, the ex- Juventus star found himself

partnered up front by Noel Whelan. He was not impressed.

 

And who can blame him? Whelan was a hard worker, a bustler, but he carried all the attacking threat of Tupperware.

 

At one point during his Boro career, Noel had scored more goals in his own net than he had in the opposition's.

 

Boksic may have been so slothful he appeared to be teetering permanently on the cusp of hibernation, but he had standards.

 

According to the story, one Monday, after a particularly inept display by the future Dons target man, Boksic went in to see the Boro secretary.

 

"What does Whelan earn per week?" he demanded.

 

The secretary told him. "And how long does he have left on his contract?"

 

The secretary told him and the striker stalked out.

 

The next day he returned, waving a cheque.

 

"This is the money Whelan will earn during the rest of his time here. Give it to him now," he commanded ,

"and tell him to f**k off ."

 

 

 

Has your chum been in a coma?

might've been. I didn't ask.

 

granted, it's about incidents that occurred some time ago, but not everyone will've heard about em.

 

thanks for your concern about my chums well-being though. and for your innovative use of italics.

 

 

it's about incidents that occurred some time ago

 

Aye its true - dream on - I think yer chum is pulling yer plonker. Hey - but that's what chum's are for eh!

 

 

Apparently printed in the Guardian or similar paper doon south

As amusing as it is I find it quite hard to believe. Whelan and Boksic regularly played together for over 3 years. If this incident did actually happen then it probably happened very soon after Boksic signed, during a season when the pair were regularly partnered up front, although very rarely on consecutive occasions. Hardly surprising when you can call on striking talent like Carlos Marinelli, Hamilton Ricard, Slzard Nemeth and Brian Deane. Middlesbrough were hardly very good at any point during their time at the club, but Whelan and Boksic were first and second top scorers in 2001/02 (with 12 between them, wow).

 

If this story was true then it would make Boksic the biggest hypocrite in football. At the time he signed he was the highest paid player in the Premiership and was roundly rubbish for two seasons.

Marinelli - I remember people thinking that he was the next best thing. Bit like Maccarone. In fact - what is it about Boro?

 

Hamilton Ricard is in jail just now. I think he killed someone. Dangerous diving or something.