The First Rule of Goalkeeping - Don't Change Your Image!!

Throughout the world of sport, many of the worlds sports stars have used an image change or change in attire as a tool to gain themselves media spotlight. Examples such as Sir Becks' various haircuts, Phillips Idowu's multicolour hair, and Usain Bolt's golden shoes have all grabbed media attention - undoubtedly the reaction that each were looking for. As it happens, these examples are all of successful sportsmen; and off the top of my head I cannot think of any instances where it has backfired.

That is, until it comes to Goalkeepers. It seems to me, that every time a goalkeeper makes an outrageous change in their image, be it a beard, a removal of beard, a mental haircut, a pony tail, or a simple change of attire - it seems to backfire. Classic Examples include:

1. Peter Schmeichel's Goatee - undoubtedly the best goalkeeper in the world at this time. During Manchester United's treble winning 99 season, The Great Dane decides to grow a ridiculous goatee beard, an action that amazingly coincided with a slump in form. It is only when the public got used to this beard, that Peter managed to regain his form and help the Red Devils win the Champs Lge.

2. Iker Casillas' beard - I will admit that i have never quite seen the fuss over Spain's World Cup winning goalkeeper and captain (brave comment I know). But it seems to me that his form slumped astonishingly, and my criticisms of him grew stronger as soon as he decided that a beard was the look for him. This may provoke some disagreement - but it is true!

3. Fabien Barthez's removal of the goatee - once again, Barthez was know world over as the worlds best having just won Euro 2000 with France, signed for the biggest club in the world Manchester United and helping them win another Premiership. For some reason, Fabien decided to remove his iconic goatee beard, prompting a series of ridiculous mistakes and ultimately his demise at Old Trafford.

4. David Seaman' Pony Tail - I do not need to go over old wounds here. David 'Safe Hands' Seaman is without doubt the most reliable and consistent goalkeeper I have seen to this day, that was until he grew the infamous pony tail! We all know what happened next. Ronaldinho, and Sikiri meant that David Seaman's England career was effectively over!

5. David James' side parting - David James has always been an extroverted figure, and has never been afraid to face the media spotlight. But as a goalkeeper that has never quite shaken off his 'calamity James' tagline, why would he create more pressure on himself with a ridiculous side parting!! Whilst I cannot find video evidence of this, I clearly remember Jamo being responsible for one of the goals during this period. James did eventually pick up his form, strangely when he reverted back to his normal haircut. 

6. Paul Jones' 50th Cap Hair Cut - This is the classic example of what not to do if you are a goalkeeper. Every goalkeeper should use this as a warning. Steady, reliable, and experienced goalkeeper Paul Jones is set to win his 50th cap for Wales against minnows Cyprus in front of his home fans at the Millennium Stadium. To celebrate his pride of reaching this landmark, Jones decides to shave a ridiculous Dragon along with the number 50 in to his hair. Surely not a problem against Cyprus?? Wales go on to lose 5-1, and Jones has an absolute stinker - a lesson to all!!

I am sure there are more examples of these instances, yet I do not have all day to continue writing!! So listen all goalkeepers - get comfortable with your image, and stick to it! Think Ian Walker - and you wont go far wrong!!