Darius Vassell

Darius Vassell (born 13 June 1980 to Jamaican Parents in Sutton Coldfield) is an English international footballer who plays club football in the Premiership at Manchester City.

Related Topics:
13 June - 1980 - Sutton Coldfield - English international - Football - Premiership - Manchester City

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He is from Wylde Green, went to John Willmott School, in Sutton Coldfield, and began his footballing career with Romulus in the Birmingham Boys League. An Aston Villa fan, was taken on by the club's School of Excellence at the age of 13. Vassell was a product of the Aston Villa Youth Team for whom he scored a club record 39 goals in a single season. He made his debut as a substitute in a 3-1 win against Middlesbrough in August 1998.

Related Topics:
Wylde Green - Aston Villa

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His England career began with an impressive spell in the under 21 team. His full England debut in the senior team was against Netherlands in 2002 where he scored England's goal in the 1-1 draw.

Related Topics:
England - Netherlands - 2002 - England

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He best qualities are his speed and agility. Aston Villa fans lamented the fact that his best performances seem to come with England, where he has proved particularly useful as a "super sub", coming on for the last 15 to 20 minutes of a game to trouble a tired defence with his exceptional pace.

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A devout Christian, Vassell believes his religious beliefs played a part in saving his life when involved in a road smash several years ago.

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He was transferred to Manchester City on 27 July 2005 for £2m.

Related Topics:
27 July - 2005

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