Ingvar handed him a drink. His face lit like a Christmas tree.
“Get that in you,” he said.
Once they all had glasses, they raised them.
“To staying out of the Championship and showing these wankers who’s boss next season,” Adam said.
“Cheers,” they all said in unison.
Udo took in the faces of people who, until recently, had been opponents and strangers. Now he found himself really liking them.
“To Brockton FC,” he added.
Once again they all cheered.
He took a sip. The cold golden liquid slipped down his throat so easily.
“Fuck, that’s good,” he said, wiping his mouth.
“It’s German too,” Ingvar added.
“No wonder then,” Udo replied.
They all laughed.
“I hope that’s the first one,”
They turned to see Javier and Steven standing behind them. Udo instantly locked eyes with Steven before turning away. Heneeded to get himself together. Every time they were in each other’s company he turned into a blushing mess.
“Doing the club proud,” Steven said. “Go and get your photos taken. We’ll do a full squad one later.””
“Give us a chance,” Goran said.
“Sorry, Big G,” Javier replied. “It’s work tonight.”
Goran shook his head. “I hate it when you call me that, Little J.”
Javier cackled.
“Fucking hell,” Adam said, staring across the top of their heads. “Who ordered two nerds, straight-up?”
Udo followed his gaze. Edi and Colin were in the midst of the crowd. To say their suits were ill-fitting was being kind. Edi’s was far too big for him whilst Colin’s was too short in the arms and tight across the chest.
Javier beckoned them over.
“What in God’s name are you two wearing?”
“Don’t blame us,” Colin said, crimson. “The stupid fucking suit hire place in Brockton screwed up the measurements.”
“Are you sure you haven’t got each other’s suits on?” Adam asked.
Colin’s jaw dropped. “Should we get changed, boss?”
“We’re going to eat any minute. You’ll have to do as you are.”
Udo caught Steven’s eye. He was clearly fighting the urge to laugh.
Professional to the end.
