Former France international Pascal Chimbonda played for Tottenham, Sunderland and Wigan in the Premier League and is now re-emerging at the bottom of English football’s pyramid.
Former Tottenham and France star Pascal Chimbonda has returned to the pitch at the ripe old age of 44.
The defender was manager of Skelmersdale United in the ninth division before signing as a player. Chimbonda made his debut on Tuesday night for his club in the North West Counties League Premier Division against Charnock Richards.
He was introduced as a substitute. It will be his first outing since joining Ashton Town four years ago. Chimbonda has made 149 appearances in the Premier League and was included in France’s squad for the 2006 World Cup, where he was on the bench in the team’s loss to Italy in the final.
The expedition did not go as planned for the veteran. Skelmersdale took the lead after the half-hour mark through Yasir Salim, before Charnock equalized just before half-time.
Jack Grimshaw restored Skelmersdale’s lead, but Charnock was awarded a controversial penalty towards the end of the match, which was converted. Despite being nailed to the back, this draw certainly resulted in an improved performance.
Chimbonda apologized on Twitter after their side suffered a 10-1 defeat at Bury FC last week. “As the manager of Skelmersdale United, I would like to apologize to all the fans who traveled to Bury FC to watch us today. Unfortunately it wasn’t our best performance. There was more to come on Tuesday night. I can only promise you a good performance.” I would like to once again thank #skembonda for their loyal support. ”
Mr Chimbonda was appointed in October last year. At the time, he said: “It is a great honor to be the manager of a club with such a rich history as Skelmersdale United Football Club.
What do you think is the most surprising transfer of all time? Share your thoughts in the comments section below
“Today is a very proud day for me and also a great opportunity and I am very much looking forward to getting on the practice field to start practicing with the players. Focus on improving your fitness.
“I’ve been inspired by Guardiola, Mourinho, Simeone and Zidane, so just like those great managers, my philosophy is to play attractive football. How valuable this club is to its supporters. We are ready to work hard to give them what they want because I know what they want.”
Despite his appointment, Skelmersdale actually sit bottom of the league with just six wins from 33 games. There was also a three-point deduction earlier this season.
Chimbonda’s side will next return to action on Saturday when they face FC Isle of Man, looking for their first win in four games.
Join our new WhatsApp community! Click this link To receive your daily intake mirror football content. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check it out whenever you like. If you are interested, please read here. Privacy Notice.
TNT Sports gives you access to matches from the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, Serie A, and more. For one monthly payment, you can also watch the biggest boxing, UFC, and WWE matches, as well as exclusive MLB matches. TNT Sport is available to watch via BT, EE, Sky and Virgin Media.
For £29.99 per month, get access to Discovery+ Premium at no extra cost
TNT Sports