“It is just horrible, isn’t it?” says James. “All those bootcut jeans and that sort of stuff.”
This image of Manchester United’s players on their way to their 2005 Christmas party – fairly unremarkable at the time – regularly resurfaces as a younger audience marvel at the everyday appearance of a set of superstars walking Manchester’s streets together.
“Back then our whole business was United,” Eamonn adds. “They were everything – our bread and butter. There wasn’t a market for City pictures.
“After every European game, United would go out in town, usually to [exclusive Deansgate bar] Sugar Lounge. It was almost part of the rules.
“In the week, they might go out for cocktails or go shopping after training.”
The Clarkes’ ability to capture United’s Christmas party – usually via a tip-off from a local contact – apparently set conspiracy theories running among the squad.
“Manager Sir Alex Ferguson would always speak to us when he saw us – ‘Are you boys still doing it? Well done’ – and I think he knew that if we were outside nightclubs and the rest, it almost policed the players,” says Eamonn.
“The players were convinced that we were telling him what they were up to. Or, the other way round – that he was telling us where to find them.”
It is a harder job now. Manchester has more places catering to those seeking the high life and a low profile.
Gary Neville, part of the 2005 Christmas party (wool coat over leather jacket, ripped jeans, white trainers), owns one. He added the Stock Exchange building – where that 2005 party took place – to his property portfolio in 2013.
“Back then, there weren’t that many places to go,” says James. “Manchester wasn’t the city it is now.
“These footballers used to shop for clothes in one shop – Flannels. The staff there would tell the players who had bought what so they didn’t have the same gear.
“It is a different sport nowadays as well. Now, they go home, nap, and spend time with their families.”
