PATRICK VIEIRA made a rare appearance in a Champions League legends match – and revealed why he repeatedly snubs invites.
The Arsenal icon, 46, has turned down the chance to play in a number of games showcasing the sport’s all-time greats over the years.
But ahead of the Champions League final in Istanbul, the tough-tackling ex-Inter Milan and Manchester City star laced up his boots again.
Vieira, speaking at the launch of Expedia Live, said: “I normally don’t play these kind of games because I’m too competitive.
“They play a bit more friendly and I don’t know how to.
“I turned down a few because the game is competitive and you play to win and if you don’t, for me, the game is pointless.
Read More Football News
“I don’t have that in my locker so it’s not for me.”
Vieira’s team won a dramatic penalty shootout against the likes of Kaka, Luis Figo and Diego Milito.
He lined up with ex-Arsenal team-mate Robert Pires, as well as Julio Cesar, Cafu, Marco Materazzi, Esteban Cambiasso, Gaizka Mendieta, Vladimir Smicer and Patrick Kluivert.
But it is the touchline he would rather return to.
Most read in Football
Vieira rejected an immediate management comeback after he was sacked by Crystal Palace in March.
He admits he is now desperate to get back into the dugout.
Vieira said: “I’ve had time to reflect on what will be my next challenge but I definitely want to go back.
“I had talks straight away after I left Palace but it wasn’t the right time. I needed time to reflect and digest and now I’m feeling good.
“I’m passionate about it and I love doing it. I had a really good experience with Palace.
“If it doesn’t come I have plans about different things that I would like to do, but my priority is football.”
Expedia Live is an official supplier of the UEFA Champions League and is the destination for fans to book travel and experiences, plus access expert advice on where to explore after the final whistle
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
