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It has been 15 years since goalkeeper David James was used as a surprise striker by Stuart Pearce on the last day of the 2004/05 season.
On May 15, 2005, Manchester City needed to beat Middlesbrough to overtake their visitors to UEFA Cup venues, but in the 86th minute they were drawing 1-1.
Then manager Pearce introduced the strangest tactic, making James a makeshift striker, hoping that the dominant physique and the goalkeeper’s skill would help create or score a goal. His backup, Nicky Weaver, came in with substitute midfielder Claudio Reyna.
Speaking to the official Premier League website on the anniversary of last year, James said: “They told me at half time that it could happen. They didn’t tell me the day before, which would have been better. Then I would have practiced my touch a bit. plus.
“I won every header. I missed every volley. I think I fouled every middlesbrough player bar, Mark Schwarzer.”
In fact, the former England international had seven touches, made four passes and committed two fouls, but had no shots or assists as the game ended in a draw, with Schwarzer saving a Robbie Fowler injury time penalty.
The results saw Middlesbrough finish one place and three points ahead of Man City to secure a place in the first round of the UEFA Cup for the following season.
While James may not have been on the scoreboard that day, there have been five goalkeepers who have scored in the Premier League, but how much do you remember about his rare goals?
Source: m.allfootballapp.com
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