Football memories keep the Perth player in the game

Jun 13 2008

A STORAGE unit full of strips is a reminder of the peaks Danny Griffin scaled for Northern Ireland.

The Belfast-born player was just 18 when he faced Jurgen Klinsmann and the reigning champions of Europe.

And he cherishes souvenirs from his international career.

“I have Alessandro Del Piero’s shirt from a game with Italy – he was top scorer in the Serie A last season. Another fond memory which stands out was man-marking Czech playmaker Pavel Nedved, the 2003 European Footballer of the Year.

“It’s a few years since my last cap and I suspect that chapter of my career is over. But I would never turn my back on my country. I’ll be there if I’m asked.”

Griffin freely admits former coach John Blackley, along with Paul Sturrock, was a massive influence on a career which saw him skippering his country in his early twenties.

Perth fans still query his decision to stick with Saints after Derby County famously offered £1 million for his services.

It might have set him up for life but Griffin stressed: “It’s only other people who dwell on that. It’s not something I think of and regret. I always look forward, not back. It didn’t bother me at the time and it doesn’t worry me now.”

To underline his positive outlook, Griffin has already bagged a B coaching certificate and sports massage qualification, with a view to the future.

But for now it’s playing which occupies his thoughts.

“My wife Kirsty has come through a lot, having to ferry me about, look after our girl Olivia, walk the dog, and work part-time as a nurse. It’s been tougher for her.

“My injury list is quite scary – I was out for eight months after back surgery at Tannadice – but I just want to play football.

“Kirsty said I had the biggest grin on my face when I signed for Ross County. It has been hard to take after snapping the Achilles and there were times when I wondered if I would come back. But I’m determined to prove myself. I’ll really give it all I’ve got.

“I’ve still got a few years left in me and the desire is stronger than ever.”