Brian Clough locked me in his office for three hours, gave my new wife flowers and chocolates, and told me I wasn't leaving until I signed for Nottingham Forest' Martin Keown discusses the grilling he got from Old Big Ead'

In the summer of 1989, Martin Keown declined offers from Manchester United and Nottingham Forest to sign with Everton, influenced by financial considerations and managerial advice. Alex Ferguson encouraged him to take the Everton deal, which offered double the wages, while Brian Clough attempted to persuade him to join Forest through an intensive meeting, showcasing a mix of charm and determination. The decision reflected Keown's prioritization of financial security and pragmatic football considerations as a newlywed player.

I reckon I'm as quick as Des Walker,' I said, but he wasn't having that. Quicker than our Des? No one is f**king quicker than our f**king Des.

He was the most charismatic manager I ever met: he gave my new wife some flowers and chocolates, and told me I wasn't leaving until I'd signed.

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