Interview: Matthew Harriott
This interview was originally carried out for the Herald and Post.
Matthew Harriott grew up in Luton, playing football for Bushmead Wonderers and Ickneild before being discovered by Luton Town when he was 12. In 2010, he made the move to Sheffield United. He played a key role in United’s progress to the FA Youth Cup final in 2011 against Manchester United. He has recently completed a loan to Burton Albion where he played in his fifth professional game. He still watches Luton Town occasionally and lives in Luton while playing for Albion. His football highlight was the FA Youth Cup final and playing against Everton. He has also been selected for the Republic of Ireland under 19s.
Matthew Harriott in training (photo credit: Matthew Harriott)
You can invite three people – living or dead, from any period – round for dinner. Who are they and why?
There are lots of choices for that. It’s hard to answer such a big question. The first is Ronaldo, the Brazillian footballer. The ‘good’ Ronaldo. Because for me, between him and Lionel Messi, he’s one of the best players of all time. He revolutionised football and brought tricks into the game. He was a big inspiration when I was little.
The second is Bruce Lee. That’s probably because when you’re growing up, having someone like him on the TV made childhood fun. He was one of a kind and there’s been no one that entertaining since.
The third is Natalie Portman because I like her films. Though that’s not the only reason!
If you were stuck on Death Row, what would you pick for your final meal?
It would have to be TGI Fridays – Jack Daniels ribs and Oreo milkshake.
How do you relax?
I like to use the Jacuzzi or watch DVDs with friends. Most of my main friends are not from football. I’ve grown up with them in Luton so I can switch off a bit from football when we’re hanging out.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Teleportation, so I could travel anywhere in the world at the click of my fingers.
What was the last little treat you bought for yourself, or someone else? (Anything from a cream cake to a luxury car)
Probably a new laptop, because my old laptop wasn’t great and kept breaking.
Matthew playing (photo credit: Matthew Harriott)
If you had to give up something tomorrow, what would you find hardest to live without? (Favourite food, or drink, pastime)
Skittles – they are my favourite sweet, and I would find it hard to go without them.
Favourite films of all time (maximum of three, and why?)
Scarface, Troy, and 300. The acting is good, and the stories and interesting and unpredictable. They also have great fight scenes.
Favourite albums/songs of all time (maximum of three, and why?)
Nicki Minaj – Pink Friday. Drake’s first album – Thank me Later. Michael Jackson’s 100 Hits.
Which person in the public eye would you most like to meet and why?
Definitely Lionel Messi so he could teach me how to do what he does. I’d ask him the key to success. He is an incredible footballer.
What do you go out of your way to avoid? (eg TV programme, style of food, type of music or performance) Tell us about it…
Mayonnaise. It reminds me of PVA glue.