Arjen Bonera

, (Born December 24, 1953) known affectionally as Bone, was a footballer for Heerenveen and Holland. Having graduated from the Ajax academy with players including Johann Cruyff and Jan Poortvliet, Arjen decided upon a move to his boyhood team SC Heerenveen. Known for his blistering turn of pace and wizardry on the left wing, he quickly progressed to the national team and was a cornerstone of the Holland team of the 'total football' era. He enjoyed a successful year in 1969/70 with Heerenveen by leading them to a league title and also collected the Dutch player of the year award. In an era of mop tops and shaggy hair, Bonera was a pioneer when he became one of the first footballers to shave off his locks entirely, a look that he holds to this day. Unfortunately, he was struck with Lung Disease in 2005 and so has been restricted to a part-time coaching role with the Dutch national team. His current residence is in Leicester, having met his future wife there, on a pre-season trip with Heerenveen in the 1970's.
 
< Prev   Next >