YOU’VE heard of a magic sponge, but what about a magic man?
Because believe it or not, Peru have their own splash of magic in the squad as their players tuck lucky playing cards down their socks – given to them by the team magician.
Peru’s players – including Christian Cueva – tuck lucky playing cards down their socks given to them by the team magician
Peruvian trickster Ernesto Carpio-Tirado is better known by his stage name Plomo and is part of the team’s backroom staff.
Plomo has followed the team for the last four years and will accompany them on their Qatar 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign.
The magician was in the dugout as Peru beat Chile in the summer’s Copa America semi-final and also accompanied the squad at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
And when Peru’s creative spark Christian Cueva was spotted with an eight of diamonds down his sock, Plomo shot to prominence.
Asked by the Athletic for the importance of the props, Plomo said: “It’s a little game between us.
“There is a lot of pressure on footballers these days, that much is clear.
“Magic helps to create a good atmosphere. It’s a way to give the players a moment of relaxation and fun.
“They always enjoy it when I try out new tricks on them. They like the novelty and always try to discover how I’m doing it.
“I believe I have been able to improve the team spirit in that way.
“Whenever I see them, I try to bring joy and good vibes.
“I do it all for them.”
Mourinho leaves son hanging over handshake in hilarious video from Spurs’ win over Olympiakos after he high-fived ballboy
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
