Eric interview: March 93

about scoring more goals than your opponent; in France it's about letting in fewer. The English play to win, not to avoid losing. It's a much more positive thing here.

Would you say that football here is an art?
No. Football on the continent is more of an art, but it's more exciting in England.

That's surprising. You've always been identified as a lover of art; how does that square with your love of English football?
It's true, I am interested in art, but only in what gives me a buzz. I like art that's fast, buzzing, spontaneous. English football is more spontaneous than any football in the world.

You have an interest in poetry, and especially in the poetry of Rimbaud. You've even been compared to him…
I admire Rimbaud. But I also admire lots of other poets and artists. In particular Jim Morrison. Because of his spontaneity. Because of his sense of adventure. Because he was an avant-gardist.

Are you an avant-gardist in football?
No. You can't be an avant-gardist in football. It's a team game. A team can be avant-gardist; like Ajax at a certain stage.

Would you like to play in an avant-gardist team?
There are very few of them. The main thing is to play in a team that wins.

What is the greatest quality you bring to Manchester United?
I bring what I am. You all know what I am. That's what I bring to the club!

Do you ever doubt your ability as a player? Before a match, perhaps?
Everyone doubts. We all need to