Ah the footballing cult hero. That one player you look back upon and remember not necessarily for their great talent or overall ability, but their dedication and passion for the game and team you love. Are they going to take the ball round four defenders then chip the keeper? No. They’re going to two foot the prick in the colourful boots and kiss the badge.
These are the five steps to becoming that kind of icon.
Have a personality
If you don't have a great personality behind you then what do you have?
Make sure you can have a laugh with everyone, show some spirit in interviews/on the pitch and walk around with that quality feel good attitude.
Fans love a character, and that's what every great cult hero has in their persona.
Stay local
For the love of god don't move. Stay where you are, through thick and thin, no matter what happens with contract disputes or relegations or any of that shite.
Do not turn your back on the people that made you the player that you are today, and in response you'll get all the admiration and adulation that you could ever want. Simple.
Work rate
It's the 85th minute and you're 2-0 down as the opposition are simply passing the ball round the back. Do you let them do it? No. You charge the shitbags with everything you've got in an attempt to win the ball back.
No challenge is too small and every blade of grass is covered regardless of the scoreline.
Embrace the club
This is vital. Even if you supported another side when you were younger it doesn't matter - this is your club now and forever.
You go to charity events, you support the club even when you aren't playing and you hate your rivals with such a burning passion that you'd literally piss on them if you could.
You know, standard stuff.
Embrace the fans
These are your people.
They have backed you from the beginning and even though times have been tough, like a durable marriage you fight through it and become a stronger unit.
These men and women pay their hard earned money to see you every week, and in return you show them how much they mean to you.
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