Listen Now: Foul Play

Yeah.

So that other voice you hear is me, and yes, I am a serious journalist.

At least, I think I am.

I've covered wars and revolutions, stories about Russian spies.

For two days in 2011, a contact of mine had the body of the Libyan dictator, Colonel Gaddafi, hidden in his fridge.

I've reported some crazy stories in my time, but this one I've been dragged into against my better judgment because at first sight, it seems absurd.

Couldn't have happened, unless it did, in which case it might just be the craziest story I've ever heard.

It all started three years ago when a stranger comes up to me.

"You're Gabriel Gatehouse, aren't you?" He says, "I loved your podcast."

"I loved your podcast."

This happens to me from time to time, ever since I did the series about conspiracy theories in America.

"Thanks," I say.

"Who are you?"

"It's me, Ed.

I tell Gabriel I've got a story for him about football."

"Now, let me stop you right there," I say.

"I'm not into football.

I don't know anything about it." But Ed won't let it go.

"Have you heard of Gordon Banks?" He asks.

As well.

Gordon Banks, another trophy for his sideboard.

John Mahoney, the substitute.

And-

Uh, goalkeeper, right? National hero from a bygone age when the England men's football team still won things.

Yeah.