A Cambridge United legends squad will travel to Cottbus, Germany on Friday 9 January 2025 to compete in an international five-a-side tournament…
United’s all-time record goalscorer, John 'Shaggy' Taylor will take charge of the team, having assembled an exciting group of former U’s to represent the club overseas.
His squad includes Danny Potter, Andy Duncan, Ian Miller, Warren Goodhind, Omar Riza, Wes Hoolahan, Michael Kyd and Dave Kitson.
The U’s will take part in the 11th “Bretter-Knaller” Tournament, facing high-profile opposition including hosts Energie Cottbus, Sparta Prague, Union Berlin, Hansa Rostock, and a Bundesliga Select XI.
Shaggy said, “The invitation came via a friend of the club, Ben McFadyean. Ben went to school in Cambridge and is now an academic and journalist specialising in German football. It sounded like an exciting opportunity and I jumped at the chance to coach the team. A few phone calls later, and with others sharing my excitement, I had the foundation of a decent-looking squad.
“The opposition will be tough. The German teams must include former Bundesliga players, and the Bundesliga select side will feature a World Cup winner in Thomas Häßler. But we have players with Premier League experience, not to mention a certain Republic of Ireland international, so we’ll be aiming to be competitive.
“The lads assure me they’ve kept themselves in good shape since retiring, so we’re ready to go! It will be great to see these United legends pulling on the amber and black once again.”
"We hope some U’s fans will join the team in Cottbus to witness the event first hand. Alternatively, we understand there will be a stream available in the UK, with local TV in Cottbus covering the tournament during the Bundesliga winter break.
Cambridge United has received a small allocation of tickets, priced at €15 each.
Supporters interested in travelling to Germany to cheer on the legends – and to watch Cambridge United in Europe – should contact Nigel Pearce via 100yearsofcoconuts@gmail.com.
John and the squad wish to thank 100 Years of Coconuts, the club’s heritage group, and CFU for their assistance in making the trip possible.
