ACTUALITE |
27.06.2003
Career on two continents
Marc-Vivien Foe enjoyed a successful football career in Africa and Europe. The tough-tackling midfielder was introduced to the big stage at World Cup USA.
And he was well known in England and France after spells with Lyon and Premiership clubs West Ham and Manchester City.
Although Cameroon were eliminated in the first round of World Cup 1994 amidst a series of disputes over unpaid bonuses, Foe was a reliable force, respected on the field and well-liked off it.
At that time, he was still with his first professional club Canon Yaounde, in Cameroon.
But the following year, he transferred to Lens in the French top flight, where he remained for five seasons
His performances were of such a quality to attract interest from Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson in 1998.
But the day before official negotiations for his transfer to the Premiership were due to start Foe broke his leg, and missed that summer´s World Cup in France.
Despite the set-back, his dream of playing in England was soon realised when he signed for West Ham United.
He failed to shine in London and returned to France where he joined up with Lyon.
But when he re-joined the Premiership - on loan to Manchester City in 2002 - he made a far greater impact.
Foe´s football helped the newly-promoted outfit stay in the top flight.
And he also carved a place in City history by scoring the last-ever goal at Maine Road.
Foe has appeared at four African Cup of Nations finals for his country.
He first played at South Africa in 1996.
And was on the winning side at last year´s final in Mali, when Cameroon beat Senegal on penalties.
Foe was an imposing presence in midfield and used his height to particular effect with aerial balls.
Together with captain Rigobert Song, he provided the back-bone for the Indomitable Lions.
He was known as an affable - if slightly shy - member of the national team.
And his presence on and off the field will be missed across the world.
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Hits: 1 | Source:BBC | |
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