Michael Boxall #5

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After nine years at Minnesota he is the all-time leader for starts and appearances and is a key figure in its backline. He says he is waiting for all the young guys to run past him, but “I’m still waiting”. Commentators praise his “massive physical presence” and his leadership skills, however, he does not like the off-season and the solo training it requires. “You go to some dark places and I just think of some creative ways to keep me going,” he says. Boxall, who is of Samoan heritage, was once the target of racial abuse during a match against Qatar in Austria. It led to the All Whites refusing to play the second half and they also filed a complaint with Fifa. “I’m proud of my teammates for taking the stand they did.” After 55 appearances for the All Whites without scoring he bagged one in NZ’s 3-0 win over New Caledonia to help the side qualify for this World Cup. Fun fact: He collects sports shoes. “I’ve got a few rare Nikes and a few Jordans as well that I only bust out when it’s not raining or snowing,” he says

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