Ian Wright, Footballer
Former footballer Ian Wright shares his views and memories about London with Robert Elms.
Ian Wright is a former professional footballer turned broadcaster.
Ian was born in 1963 to a Jamaican couple in south-east London, and grew up with his mother and step-father. His biological dad had left the family when Ian was under two years old, and when things at home were difficult, he spent as much time as possible outside playing football.
After leaving school at 14, Ian took part in trials for many professional football clubs but was never selected. By the age of 21, he had three children to provide for, so when Crystal Palace came calling in 1985, he turned them down three times before accepting a two-week trial, followed by a three-month contract. His football career had finally begun.
After impressing as a forward at Palace, he was bought by Arsenal for a record fee in 1991. He was called up to the England squad the same year and would go on to collect 33 caps.
At Arsenal he became their highest goal scorer of all time, a record only surpassed eight years later by Thierry Henry.
Former footballer Ian Wright shares what he loves and loathes about London with Robert Elms. This interview was originally broadcast in May 2014.
Presenter: Robert Elms
Producer: Sarah Bateson
Sounds Producer: Ross Ryan
Executive Producer: Lorraine Maguire
