Incarceration Leads to Humbling Moment for a Tough Football Player: "Previously perceived as a hardened man, my time in prison revealed I was naive and immature – just a vulnerable infant."
In a candid confession, a notorious ex-footballer who made a name for himself with his volatile nature on the field, has opened up about his humbling stint in prison. This brash player racked up over 250 appearances in the prestigious Premier League, earning a fearsome reputation for his love of a good scuffle.
However, he crossed a line back in 1994 when he became the first British footballer to serve time for an on-field offense. After a heated altercation that resulted in a headbutt, he was handed a 12-game ban and a three-month prison sentence[1].
Speaking to BBC Sport, this formidable warrior admitted, 'I thought I was a man. I've got everything boxed-off. I was just a baby.' The individual in question was none other than former Everton and Newcastle striker, Duncan Ferguson, who was convicted for headbutting Raith Rovers player Jock McStay while playing for Rangers in a match in April 1994[1].
Fast-forward over two decades, and 'Big Dunc' has shared the gritty details of his 44-day ordeal at HMP Barlinie - Scotland's largest prison, located in Riddrie, north-east Glasgow. At just 23 years old, he had concerns for his safety due to his high-profile status, combined with his young age.
He shared, 'It was like they were focusing on me. You're worried sick. You've got to face that in the morning. I never slept a wink all night. I was terrified. I'm going to walk out on this landing in the morning and you think someone's going to stick a knife in you.' This fear was not unfounded, as he had been involved in several previous altercations, including a fight in Anstruther, a town located nine miles from St. Andrews[1].
Previously, he had been fined for headbutting a policeman and punching and kicking a supporter who was on crutches[1]. In a chat with Mail Sport last month, Ferguson acknowledged the anxiety he experienced during his prison term. He was reduced to a trembling ball of anxiety, and the only respite he found came when the lights were out[1].
However, the prison stint also became a catalyst for change. He heard threats from fellow inmates that put even the fiercest warrior on edge, such as, 'What cell is he in. I am going to cut that big dirty Orange b****d. He's gonnae get cut tae f***.'
But, despite the fear and threats, Ferguson lived to tell the tale, and he has since rectified his excessive drinking habits, being sober since 2008. Despite the stormy seas he navigated during his playing career and personal life, the battle-hardened sailor is a survivor par excellence, sailing through life without a desire for rum[1].
- In a new interview, former Everton and Newcastle striker Duncan Ferguson, who spent 44 days in prison for a violent on-field offense in 1994, has shared with Mail Sport that he was often targeted due to his high-profile status and youth, leading to constant fear and anxiety.
- Speaking about his prison stint at HMP Barlinie in Scotland, Ferguson recounted the threats he received from fellow inmates, such as being warned that he would be cut to pieces, reflecting the danger he faced during his time inside.
- The infamous footballer, who racked up over 250 appearances in the Premier League, has since addressed his excessive drinking habits and has been sober since 2008, showing signs of personal growth and transformation following his challenging prison experience.
