In my first press conference, a journalist asked me how I felt about the fact that none of the fans wanted me there. Fans graffitied 'F*** off, Aldridge' at the training ground' Liverpool icon John Aldridge recalls the craziest unveiling of his career

"When John Aldridge swapped the famous red of Liverpool for the blue and white of Real Sociedad in 1989, he expected fresh challenges on the pitch. What he wasn't quite prepared for was the hostile welcome off it. The move made Aldridge the club's first non-Basque signing in decades. Since their foundation in 1909, Real Sociedad had developed a strong identity rooted in Basque culture, language, and pride. For most of the 20th century, the club adhered strictly to a Basque-only recruitment policy, similar to their fierce rivals Athletic Bilbao."

"Things have calmed down since then, but there is still big pressure on foreigners today, Aldridge explains. Aldridge represented Ireland at international level (Image credit: Getty Images) There's an academy full of brilliant local kids who want that shirt and their families and communities want to see them playing. There's only one way to win them round by performing. As a striker that means running your socks off as well as scoring goals."

John Aldridge moved from Liverpool to Real Sociedad in 1989 as the club's first non-Basque signing in decades. Real Sociedad cultivated a strong Basque identity since 1909 and historically used a Basque-only recruitment policy similar to Athletic Bilbao. The transfer provoked hostility from supporters, who graffitied the training ground and expressed rejection. Aldridge faced intense pressure but pledged to win fans by performing and working hard. He scored early for the club, silenced many doubters, and emphasized that local academy players and community pride intensify expectations. His on-field performances and frequent goals helped calm tensions over time.

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