Football and a fry up – two of life’s greatest things. Well, in my opinion anyway.

Growing up the main people in my life who were sports-mad were my nan – an ardent Manchester United fan – my Geordie grandad, and my family over in Ireland.

So, naturally I floated towards the mighty Red Devils with their fleet of world class superstars but it was one man who stood out for me… the classy, technically savvy and pacey centre half, Rio Ferdinand.

Maybe it was because I played the same position as a child but Rio, who was quickly dubbed a Rolls Royce of a defender, was my idol.

It was his name which was plastered across the Manchester United white away kit in 2006, not Rooney, Ronaldo, Scholes or Giggs.

So when I heard he was spotted in part of Kent trying out a popular cafe I had to head down myself.

The 44-year-old TV pundit was pictured at Parkwood Cafe on Parkwood Green in Rainham back in September where he spoke to staff and was pictured with fans.

Now, if I’m being honest, pulling up at the car park of the complex wasn’t somewhere I’d expect a former England international who earned thousands of pounds a week to head off for breakfast.

The same thought hit my head as I approached the cafe just a minute’s walk from my car. It won’t win any award for its appearance, but I could see people sitting inside and outside at 9am so it must have been quite popular.

As I strolled in I was surprised at how busy the place was. I’ve been to my fair share of spit and sawdust cafes and they’ve nearly all been relatively quiet, but this play was full of life.

Builders having a laugh and making jokes which leave you cringing a bit were sat in one corner, OAPs in the other, and some people who seemed like regulars scattered about the place elsewhere.

I’m not sure what type of breakfast Rio goes for, but guessing by the shape he’s stayed in since he quit football it’s probably a world apart from mine.

With plenty of options on display – from set breakfasts, burgers and sandwiches – I opted to create my own which included two sausages, two bits of bacon, two hash browns, a fried egg, two bits of toast, beans and an apple juice.

For £9.90 I think that’s a reasonably fair price and I’d be happy to pay it again.

Owner Reggie and his staff were friendly, chatty and were obviously very popular with their customers who would spend minutes chatting with them.

Around 10 minutes after I ordered my food was brought over to me at my booth, which I’m fairly sure after checking pictures of when Mr Ferdinand visited was the same he was in.

It was piping hot and freshly cooked, maybe even too hot to start on straight away, but it was miles better than some places – which shall remain nameless – that serve you reheated and lukewarm items.

The booths, black and white floor and somewhat random city canvases around the place probably weren’t what the former United star was used to in his heyday, but Parkwood Cafe would’ve reminded him of exactly what a hard-working, friendly community cafe should be like.

Reggie and his staff’s friendliness and willingness to talk to every person who entered, evening showing genuine care about their lives, put them above any standard place.

Dozens of people flocked in and out of the eatery whether it be for a quick sandwich, tea and coffee or full English breakfast.

It’s clear to see the cafe is incredibly popular and it’s no surprise when you’re there for yourself to see the top-notch grub and excellent service they provide. If you’re nearby definitely head down for a great experience and who knows, you may even spot an ex-footie star.

Food: Piping hot, tasty, proper full English grub served in generous amounts. ****

Drink: Take your pick from the fridge or settle for a hot drink. Exactly what you’d expect. *****

Decor: It won’t win any awards for its looks, but it’s a standard-looking cafe. The exterior could do with a facelift. **

Staff: Perfectly friendly, respected by customers and aren’t just there to take your order. They’ll show an interest in your life and everyone loves them. *****

Price: £9.90 for a big breakfast and a cold drink. It’s not Wetherspoon prices, but the food is much better. ****

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