Talk of the Town – Paul Culpin chats to Owen Jephcote
Ahead of Saturday’s fixture away at Kirby Muxloe, Nuneaton Borough goal scoring legend and former Kirby player, Paul Culpin, spoke with Owen Jephcote to discuss his Boro memories and footballing career. Paul scored an astonishing 208 goals in 239 starts for Nuneaton Borough.
Best Memories of playing for Nuneaton?
One of my best memories was scoring my goalscoring record at Manor Park. I reached 55 goals during the 1992/93 season, which was a real achievement. The fans and the club were so supportive, and contributing that much to the team felt like a real accomplishment.
Who was the best player you played with during your time at Nuneaton?
Trevor Morley was undoubtedly one of the best players I had the privilege of playing with at Nuneaton. He was a great guy to have on the team.
Who was the best player you played against during your career?
Playing against Peter Shilton was a real highlight. He was a legendary goalkeeper, and it was a real honor to share the field with him. His shot-stopping ability and leadership in goal were remarkable, and it was always a challenge to try to break him down. He made you raise your game to another level.
Thoughts on the new club?
It's fantastic to see the fans taking ownership of the club. The fact that Nuneaton Town is fan-owned is a massive step in the right direction to ensure the club remains sustainable and connected to its community. It gives the supporters a real sense of pride and responsibility, and it's a positive sign for the club's future, ensuring that it stays in the hands of those who genuinely care about its success.
Could a version of yourself in your prime get into the 2024/25 Nuneaton Town Starting XI? If so, what qualities would you add to the side?
I think a version of myself in my prime could get into the starting XI today. In terms of qualities, I'd work on finishing professionally and ensuring I could add a clinical edge to the team's attacking play. Being able to consistently convert chances would be something I'd bring to the side, as I always prided myself on my goal scoring ability.
Paul, during your early career, you moved to Finland to play in their top league at just 20. What was it like moving to a foreign country at such a young age? How did the move come about, and is there anyone you still keep in touch with today despite your short tenure with the club?
Moving to Finland at just 20 was a massive step for me, especially being so young and moving to a completely foreign country. I was released by Leicester at the time, and Ian McFarland, the assistant manager at Leicester, helped me secure the move to Finland. It allowed me to play in their top league, and I spent three summers there. While it was a short tenure, it was a valuable learning experience in a different footballing culture. Sadly, I'm not in touch with anyone from that time anymore, but I look back on it fondly.
Your move to Coventry City must be one of the most memorable moments in your life, but with game time limited, how did that impact your career? You must have shown strong mental characteristics to return to your prolific goalscoring form after moving to Northampton Town?
Moving to Coventry was a massive moment in my career, no doubt about it. However, game time was limited, and I only played 9 games, scoring 2 goals. Looking back, I wish I could have played more, as I could contribute more to the team. Despite that, I didn't let it affect me too much. When I moved to Northampton, I was given a regular place in the first team under Graham Carr, which helped me get my career back on track. That opportunity allowed me to rediscover my goalscoring form and prove that I could consistently perform at a high level.
Like many others, you have moved into covering the sport from the press bench since retiring from football. How has commentating for BBC CWR changed your view on the game, and do you think the sport has changed since your playing days?
Commentating for BBC CWR has been an enjoyable experience. It gives me a different perspective on the game as I'm now looking at it from a broadcaster's point of view. Sometimes, I get a little nervous before going live, as it's a different kind of pressure compared to playing. In terms of the game itself, it's changed. It's much faster now, emphasising fitness and tactical discipline. The speed of play has increased significantly, and the level of preparation and professionalism has evolved.
Finally, would you have any words of encouragement for our junior section players who are in the early stages of their development and careers?
My advice would be to pay attention, enjoy the game, and, most importantly, respect your teammates, coaches, and the game itself. It's easy to get caught up in trying to make a name for yourself, but always remember that the foundation of success is hard work, dedication, and respect for those around you. Enjoy every moment and keep learning from each experience, whether good or bad.
