Flashback: Five of the best EPL debuts
Roar Pro By tommy_doleman, 17 Aug 2011 tommy_doleman is a Roar Pro
Sergio Aguero impressed everybody last night when his appearance on the hour-mark as a substitute proved to be the catalyst for what ended as comfortable 4-0 win for Manchester City against Swansea at Eastlands.
It was an unforgettable debut for the Argentine with a fine cameo, scoring two goals and creating a fantastic assist for David Silva’s goal. This had Tommy Doleman thinking of other players who have made an impact on debut and he’s picked out five of his most memorable (in no particular order).
FABRIZIO RAVANELLI – Middlesbrough – 1996/97
Having completed a seven million pound switch to Teesside from Champions League winners Juventus in 1996, Ravanelli soon established himself as a cult hero at the Riverside.
Fans only had to wait 20 minutes for the ‘white feather’ to win and score a penalty after opponents Liverpool had taken an early lead on the opening day.
He pegged Liverpool back twice more to complete his hat-trick and rescue a point for his side in a highly entertaining 3-3 draw.
Despite the excitement of the opening day, ‘Boro were eventually relegated from the Premier League despite making both cup finals.
ALAN SMITH – Leeds United – 1998/99
Leeds United were a goal down at Anfield when youngster Alan Smith was introduced in place of Clyde Wijnhard and scored with his first touch in front of the Kop.
After a surging run towards the area from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, the ball broke to Smith who smashed home to pull his side level and live every youngster’s dream.
Hasselbaink went on to score two typically emphatic goals to seal a comeback from behind 3-1 victory for the Yorkshire side.
Since leaving Leeds, Smith’s career has somewhat stalled.
JURGEN KLINSMANN – Tottenham – 1994/95
The German striker was one of the highest profile signings of the 1994/95 season and quickly made his mark in one of the most memorable introductions ever.
Having previously been given bad press for simulation, Klinsmann celebrated his first goal in style, a header from Darren Anderton’s cross, by launching into that classic diving celebration.
Another goal followed as Tottenham edged Sheffield Wednesday 4-3 before going on to score 21 goals, winning the Football Writers’ player of the year award.
MARIO STANIC – Chelsea – 2000/01
The Croatian was one of the original foreigners to grace the pitch at Stamford Bridge and while his career in England was pretty forgettable, his goal against West Ham will be remembered as one of the most flamboyant.
It appeared that there was no danger when Stanic received the ball from at least 30 yards out, but he controlled, juggled twice and hit an unstoppable 35 volleys that left Hammers goalkeeper Shaka Hislop without a chance.
He scored a second as the Blues went on to win the match 4-2.
RUUD VAN NISTELROOY – Manchester United 2001/02
Price tags often create high expectations, especially when you’re a goalscorer, but Ruud Van Nistelrooy proved he wasn’t overpriced at 19 million pounds when he tucked away a debut double against Fulham at Old Trafford.
Having gone 2-1 down, the Dutchman banged home two goals in four minutes to complete a terrific turnaround and by season’s end, he finished with 23 league goals and the Players’ player of the year award.
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August 17th 2011 @ 12:53pm
tommy_doleman said | August 17th 2011 @ 12:53pm | Report comment
Before any one jumps on too quickly, I do realise Stanic wasn’t one of the original foreigners, he was one of the many in that era.