Top 5 Reasons Why I Love Edwin van der Sar
5. I fell in love with United, and, even after Ruud, the one who made me fall in love with the team left, he kept the flame alive. He turned my eyes towards the goal, that, before, was largely ignored by me. I was only hoping a goalkeeper would stop a ball before. He changed my mind about a goalkeeper's role. And, when I saw he loved the team as well, that was enough for me.
4. He was humble and low profile. Such a great player, and he was never involved in anything (well, there are some suspicions, but he managed to come out clean). Never bragging, never rude. Friends with everyone. A man who'd had such a career had the right to regard himself highly, much higher than everyone, including Iker Casillas, who was regarded as the best. But Edwin never did, and, even though he was largely ignored even by football critics, we fans know deep inside our heart what he is.
3. His strange beauty. Perhaps it's because I like my men thin. And with long noses. And yes, I also have a soft spot for blondes. But with those blue eyes and that smile... that was enough to have me glued to the screen. Not to mention the fact he always managed to look sexy in a suit. Stylish, a total fashion victim in a way. A runway secret.
2. The force and security between the goalposts. Looking at technical matters, Edwin was a goalkeeper who knew how to use his defenders. Not only that: he also cheered up the team. Many interviews talk about his pep talks at the locker rooms. But, as it was noticeable, every time he grabbed the ball there was a sense of safety, for the players as well as the team. Forever strong despite his build.
1. He changed my idea of the perfect man. Forever smitten with rockstars, I always went for the dangerous type. Ed changed that idea. He showed me that I could find a sweet, caring family man with the looks. Dedicated to his job, but also dedicated to his lovely wife and children, always showing them his love... that's what I want to find in a man now. A man who will drive me crazy because of his sexiness but that will love me too. I guess I shall blame him if I don't find him, but I know that if I do, a man like him will be the man for my life.
So, thank you, Edwin. You were more than just a goalkeeper. I'll always love you.