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Neil Razor Ruddock is an English former professional footballer and television personality.
He is best remembered for his time at Liverpool FC, where he became a key figure in the heart of the Liverpool defence.
While at Anfield, the club enjoyed a period of success, winning the FA Cup and the League Cup. Neil’s no-nonsense approach to defending and willingness to put his body on the line endeared him to Liverpool fans, who appreciated his commitment and passion.
In his 17 year career, Neil Razor Ruddock made 355 club appearances and earned one cap playing for England. Despite playing in central defence, Neil scored 29 goals.
Neil was known for his larger-than-life persona which earned him a reputation as one of football’s most colourful characters. His sense of humour and playful antics often made headlines, contributing to his status as a fan favourite.
Since retiring Neil Razor Ruddock has featured in a number of TV programmes, including I’m A Celebrity Get me Out of Here, Big Brother and Celebrity Masterchef. He is now a household name and much-loved personality beyond the domain of football fans.
It was while filming for Harry’s Heroes that producers sent Neil to be checked by doctors and it was discovered he had heart issues. Since then he has had a pacemaker fitted, had gastric band surgery and lost 10 stone, as well as curbing drinking and eating habits.
Neil makes for a fun and engaging public speaker, where he describes his experiences as a footballer, sharing anecdotal tales but also what it takes to succeed as an elite professional. He also shares his health and wellbeing journey where he has transformed his diet and lifestyle.
Neil was born in south London, and began his professional football journey at Millwall FC at the age of 13, making his professional debut in 1986. He quickly established himself as a formidable presence in defense, known for his tough tackling and commanding presence in the box.
In 1986 he moved to Tottenham Hotspur and it was in his first appearance for the club that he broke his leg and went on to make only appearances for Spurs.
After a short time back at Millwall, Neil signed for Southampton in 1989 where he spent three seasons. His next stop was back at Tottenham, where Terry Venables was the manager.
In 1993, Neil joined Liverpool under manager Roy Evans, part of the squad infamously known as the Spice Boys.
One of his most memorable games for Liverpool was in a match against Leeds, when he scored twice in a 5-0 victory over Leeds.
After leaving Liverpool in 1998, Neil played for West Ham, Crystal Palace and Swindon before retiring in 2003. In 2015, he came out of retirement to join non-league side Wellingborough Whitworth but was never called upon to make an appearance.
Neil Razor Ruddock’s larger-than-life personality has seen him become a popular character on prime time TV with a number of appearances on popular reality shows. His TV appearances include:
2004 – I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! After his appearance, he recorded a charity single, a version of “Jungle Rock”, with fellow contestants Lord Brocket, Peter Andre and Mike Read, performing as the Jungle Boys.
2006 – Neil Razor Ruddock’s Pass & Move Soccer School where children released by academies were coached by Ruddock.
2007 – Celebrity Wife Swap UK.
2006 – Football Saved My Life
2011 – James May’s Man Lab on BBC Two
2019 and 2020 – Harry’s Heroes, which featured former football manager Harry Redknapp attempting to get a squad of former England international footballers back fit and healthy for a game against Germany legends.