Yesterday the club announced that prior to out home match against Blackpool on Sunday April 3rd, Chairman Mo would be unveiling a statue to his mate Michael Jackson. But why? And who is he? Let me take you by the hand and explain all:
Seen in the media, and on some Fulham internet forums, as strange, amusing or even a bonkers idea, the statue will feature the big man in one of his most iconic poses and will stand looking out over Old Father Thames between the Hammersmith and Riverside stands.
Jackson was born in the town of Runcorn in 1973. And twenty years later he made his first senior appearance for Crewe Alexandra. Going on to make 560 appearances for his six league clubs as well as a handful of games for hometown club Runcorn. Retiring in January 2010 owing to serious knee problems he is now a coach at the club he finished his playing career with, Shrewsbury Town and is a hot tip to step up into the managers seat there in the near future.
When you think about all of the legends that have graced the turf at Craven Cottage over its history it seems an odd choice to erect a statue of a player who never actually played for Fulham. Speculation that the club are considering striking a statue for either Paul Benson or Junior Agogo have yet to be confirmed.
**CORRECTION**
It has been brought to my attention that the statue will actually represent the American Singer/Songwriter/fruitcake Michael ‘King of Pop’ Jackson and not the retired northern footballer. If you think about it, that kinda makes more sense.
Apologies for any confusion, gang.
I used to watch Michael Jackson at Preston NE. He was alright.