Pompey legend makes visit to Westergate school

Former Portsmouth footballer Linvoy Primus made an unexpected appearance at Westergate Community School.

The visit marked the start of the centre back’s two-week tour, which will see him addressing children at local schools in Aldingbourne, Barnham, Eastergate, Felpham, Walberton, Binsted and Yapton schools.

During the visit Linvoy was more than happy to tell the children stories about his days playing with the likes of Paul Gascoigne, David Beckham, Sol Campbell, Peter Crouch and David James.

He explained how life had always been a struggle, from growing up in a high-rise tenement block in Stratford, East London, to making his first professional appearance for Charlton Athletic, and then given a free transfer – ‘because he wasn’t good enough’.

He said: “I was continually trying to prove myself to others, especially to others who didn’t rate my playing skills.

“The better I got, the more I wanted, but despite all the fame and money I earned, I was never really happy within myself.

“During my ten years at Portsmouth, I played under three managers, the last one being Harry Redknapp.

“He told me I didn’t fit in to his plans and offered me another free transfer, but 40 minutes into the next game, the person who took my place in the team was seriously injured and I was brought back into the first team.”

The sudden change of fortune coincided with Linvoy finding religion.

He added: “I gave my life to God and each week I found myself playing not for the manager, not for the fans, but for his glory.”

The students, all aged between 11 and 16, had the opportunity to quiz the star on his life and playing career.