We caught up with The Independent’s Chief Football Correspondent, Sam Wallace, to discuss life in journalism and also all the latest goings on at Arsenal.
Follow Sam on Twitter, here.
At a young age, what qualifications did you get and what were your aspirations?
I went to university and got a degree in English literature. I always wanted to be a newspaper reporter.
Where and when was your first breakthrough into the world of sports media?
My big breakthrough was getting on the Telegraph graduate trainee scheme in 1999. I will always be grateful for the Daily/Sunday Telegraph’s efforts to knock me into shape
What is a typical day for a journalist?
It varies a lot. I spend a lot of time driving to stadiums, training grounds etc. And there is also a fair bit of travelling further afield for Champions League, England away games
What would you suggest to aspiring sports journalists to achieve their dream?
I think you have to aspire to work for a newspaper, at whatever level. Don’t worry too much in the early days what level of football you are covering, as long as you are out there meeting people and learning how to find stories. It doesn’t hurt to start out as a news reporter – most football reporters did. Also, you have to be quietly persistent.
How long have you been a journalist?
I started as a trainee in 1999.
Would you suggest aspiring sports journalists to go to university?
Yes, but only because that was my path. Some excellent reporters/journalists didn’t. I am a bit wary of giving precise advice because I started 16 years ago and things may have changed since then. I was part of one of the fortunate generations that didn’t have to pay tuition fees.
What is the most interesting story you have written on?
Hmmm, tough one. As a news reporter I was one of the first at the site of the Paddington rail crash in Ladbroke Grove where the survivors were escorted from the tracks. While I wouldn’t describe it as ‘interesting’, it left a lasting impression on me. From a football point of view, I was in Manchester for a few years including the period of the Rock of Gibraltar affair. Fascinating times. And I have been fortunate to cover a lot of great games, including four World Cups.
How long do you tend to work on a story?
Each one is different. You’d be surprised how much quicker you type with a deadline looming and a late flight to catch after a European away game.
You work for one of the most famous newspapers in the world, do you enjoy doing what you do?
Yes, I love it.
How do you find out about the transfer rumours that you write on?
Hopefully not rumours! You learn over the years which people you can rely upon. Unfortunately, not everyone wants to tell you exactly what they’re doing at every stage of a transfer deal in which millions of pounds are changing hands. If only they were.
What time do you get up for work usually?
It’s my children I get up for in the morning! I have normally spoken to the sports desk by 9.30/9.45am.
When did you know you wanted to be a football journalist?
I have always wanted to be a newspaper journalist. For as long as I can recall.
Do you get the tube or use your car? (Plain interest)
Both. I also cycle to the grounds that are near-ish to where I live in London (but only, I’m afraid, if the weather is decent)
Which team did/do you support as a boy/now?
I’m going to pass on this one. Everyone has a team and I’m no different. The assumption from some is that it makes you biased as a reporter. Nothing could be further from the truth. I wouldn’t dream of showing favouritism.
Did you go to a lot of games as a youngster?
Yes.
Who, in your opinion, has been the best player in the Premier League this season?
For sheer individual impact, I’d say Alexis Sanchez.
What is your most memorable footballing moment as a child?
I don’t wish to give away the team I supported so I’ll say the 1986 World Cup finals. Magical. The kits, the stadiums, the sunshine, the foreign players you never got to see on the telly at any other time. And, of course, Maradona.
What’s the best game you’ve reported on?
Tough one. The 2005 and 2008 Champions League finals stand out for obvious reasons. I missed Chelsea in 2012 but I was there for the famous 2-2 draw at the Nou Camp. Also Germany 7-1 Brazil. Arsenal-wise, I’d have to say the win at the Bernabeu in 2006.
On your day(s) off, do you go to watch football matches as a fan?
To be honest, I’m usually covering a game when there are games on.
What’s your favourite ground/atmosphere to visit when reporting on a match?
The older stadiums are the best for atmosphere. So it’s Anfield at the top of the list for that. White Hart Lane because the press box overlooks the tunnel and is right behind the benches.
Who, in your opinion, is the best player in the world?
Lionel Messi.
Who is the best player ever to grace English football?
Tough one, because pre-1982 I’m going on history books and the accounts of others. Has to be George Best, right?
Who do you think is the man to eventually replace Arsène Wenger?
Ha! The sting in the tail. Isn’t it amazing what damage being his potential successor can do to your career? Owen Coyle has only just got a job in the MLS and Jurgen Klopp, at the time of writing, is rock-bottom of the Bundesliga. I would like to see more British coaches in the Premier League because I think any serious football country should produce its own top managers and players. But if Wenger left tomorrow I think it would be inevitable Arsenal would look further afield. Joachim Loew? Ronald Koeman? Diego Simeone? Dennis Bergkamp would be interesting but even leaving aside his lack of experience, I just can’t see how it would work with him not taking flights. Teams fly to a lot of domestic away games these days. So Jogi it is.
