My perfect weekend by Martin Keown: On my bike for a fry-up before Arsenal put the heat on Spurs

 
Martin Keown19 July 2013

Since retiring from full-time professional football in 2005, I’ve thrown myself into the media and corporate world so my Saturdays are often very busy.

If free, I would start with an early morning bike ride or run, if my ageing calves allow, over Port Meadow, which is a beautiful spot close to the centre of Oxford where I live and was brought up.

I cycle everywhere because, after driving to London and back day in day out for years, I can’t stand getting in my car.

After a quick shower I’d head into the city (by bike, of course) with my wife Nicola for a cooked breakfast in Oxford’s famous Covered Market, a charming historical hot spot.

The irresistible Cumberland sausages are a must have, normally washed down with a pot of tea and mopped up by a round of toast.

I love watching my youngest son Niall, a first-year pro at Reading, but if he doesn’t have a game my perfect day would involve getting the train to see Arsenal beat Tottenham. I’d sneak into the luxurious Diamond Club at the Emirates for a quick glass of wine before kick-off or, if asked, watch from the directors’ box, which is a rare treat!

I like to pop in to see old friends and team-mates after the match — Arsene Wenger and his staff always make me feel very welcome.

From the age of 13, as a triallist at Arsenal, I’ve been travelling between Oxford and London and I still enjoy it to this day. London has such a buzz about it and it’s a welcome contrast to the serenity of Oxford life. After the game I’d ideally get back home for a bite to eat in a nearby restaurant, finishing up with a few drinks in my local pub and a discussion about the day’s football with some football fans. I’d have to be back home in time for Match of the Day!

Sunday is a more relaxing affair spent with family. We have relatives close by so not visiting them would be strange. If my lads are at home we’d have one of their mum’s Sunday roasts, although the recent weather has meant a Sunday BBQ becoming a regular occurrence.

I’d be in front of the TV on Sunday night. Mr Selfridge and Downton Abbey have been highlights this year but my current favourite is The White Queen, which makes history seem far more interesting than it was at school.

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