The fifth of April, 1997. It was a tough day for pretty much every Derby County fan. It was their first season in the Premier League since they were promoted last season. Of course, they were considered the underdogs – especially playing against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Enter Paulo Wanchope.
Derby
With graceful skill and technique, he weaved past one, then two, then three, then four Manchester United defenders to beat goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel and score a goal on his debut for the club. He would play in 71 more matches for the Rams, scoring 23 goals, and cementing his status as one of Derby Country’s most iconic players. Wanchope started his football career with Costa Rica club Herediano, where he scored 20 goals in 14 appearances before being signed by Derby. Since then, he has played for a smorgasbord of clubs, including West Ham, Manchester City, Malaga, and Chicago Fire. Check out our other Retro Heroes – Robbie Fowler Les Ferdinand Ruud Van Nistelrooy Andy Cole David Seaman Steve McManaman Steve Finnan Craig Bellamy Trevor Sinclair Tony Adams
Nationality: Costa Rican
Position: Striker
Goals Scored: 102
Total Appearances: 264
Clubs Played For: Herediano, Derby County, West Ham United, Manchester City, Málaga, Al-Gharafa, Herediano, Rosario, FC Tokyo, Chicago Fire
