Ryan-Zico Black (original) (raw)

Ryan-Zico Black (born 4 August 1981) is a Guernsey footballer who plays as a midfielder for Guernsey in the Isthmian League. He is named after Zico, a Brazilian footballer admired by Black's father. Brazilian broadcaster Globo interviewed Black and presented him with a video message from his famous namesake as well as a signed shirt. In 2012 Black was invited to participate in Zico's annual charity match in Brazil, but had to pull out through injury. However, in 2013 Ryan-Zico was again invited and this time played in midfield and then defence in a match in front of 70,000 fans at Brazil's famous Maracana stadium. Although his team lost 7–3, Black scored a goal and afterwards said of the experience "it has to be the highlight of my career".