National Pub Football Week 2005 launched by Football Greats

Former England Captain and Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce was joined by legendary Wales striker Ian Rush and ex-Ireland international Andy Townsend at the launch of National Pub Football Week.

The three were on top form as they were grilled by guests at the event, which took place at the riverside facilities of Fulham Football Club. BBC sports presenter, Ray Stubbs, was on hand to take questions from the audience as the panellists offered frank and funny insights into the beautiful game as well as give their tips for the World Cup Qualifiers.

They also gave offered their advice on their favourite local with Ian Rush wasting no time in recommending the Black Horse in Cheshire. “If you’re not in the stadium the next best place to be watching football is in the pub,” said Ian.

“I do enjoy watching the football in my local pub with the lads,” added Andy. “If I was in a pub I’d be at The Boot Inn near my Warwickshire home.”

Pearce, a former electrician with Brent council, didn’t turn professional until he was 21-years-old and until then used to spend many an hour watching matches at his local – The Plough in Kingsbury, north London.

“I’ll never forget the atmosphere watching the 82 World Cup with my mates at The Plough,” said Pearce. “And when England does well, the feel-good factor affects the mood of the whole country.”

And with England facing Austria and Poland in the October World Cup Qualifiers to secure their place in Germany next year, anticipation is already swelling. “This week really kicks off World Cup 2006,” said Ray. “The fervour will just grow and grow from here on in.”