This month profiles Joe Tortolano of

Hibernian F C

When Italy recently took on Scotland at Ibrox. Joe Tortolano had a dilemma. Perhaps the ensuing draw was the ideal result. keeping both his Italian family and Scottish mother and wife happy.

Since joining Hibs from Bromwich Albion when he was 19. the former Scotland under~21 cap has become a fimi favourite with Easter Road fans and is now the third longest serving player at the Edinburgh

Club.

Age: 26

Born: Stirling

Occupation: Professional footballer Lives: Stirling

When did you decide to become a footballer? When I was about six or seven I decided football was for me.

What has been your most embarrassing experience on the football field? Scoring own goals. So far I have scored three. the worst being at Ibrox against Rangers in front of 40.000 people.

Favourite record this year? John Secada's Just Another Day.

Favourite film you have seen recently? Misery.

Favourite TV programme? Home and Away.

Last book you read? Ally McCoist's autobiography I was looking for hints.

Who has had the greatest influence on you? My parents and my brother Mario.

If you hadn't become a footballer what would you have liked to be doing? Owning and running an Italian clothes shop.

How do you like to spend evenings out? A meal and a couple of drinks with friends.

What is your idea of a perfect night in? Watching TV and relaxing.

What is your favourite food? Pizza and Chinese but not together!

Favourite tipple? Mineral water if the manager's reading this but really. lager.

What is your idea of happiness? A few bob in the bank.

If you could live anywhere. where would it be? Why? Italy for the food. clothes and the way of life.

Do you have any phobias? Wife-phobia! What is your most disgusting habit? I haven‘t got any but that's not the wife's opinion. ~

Heroes? Kenny Dalglish.

Villains? None really.