5 legends who unexpectedly played for smaller clubs

Diego Mar<p>

#3 Fernando Hierro - Bolton Wanderers

Bolton Wanderers managed to sign a Real Madrid legend.
Bolton Wanderers managed to sign a Real Madrid legend in Fernando Hierro.

Fernando Hierro means Real Madrid and vice versa! The former Spanish manager who led his nation this World Cup is a true Los Blancos legend, having arrived from Real Valladolid for a mere £900K, he went on to represent Real Madrid for a grand total of 601 games, a career spanning 14 years. He also managed to score more than 120 goals for the club.

During the twilight years of his career, Hierro moved to Al Rayyan SC in Qatar but would make a move back to Europe a year later.

Following the advice of former Real Madrid teammate Steve McManaman, Fernando Hierro joined the English Premiership side Bolton Wanderers, teaming up with former Real player Ivan Campo.

He was a massive cult hero at the Reebok Stadium. The Spaniard managed to play 29 out of 38 games in the league during the 04-05 season and also scored one goal which game against Norwich City, though in a losing cause.

Having been a true fan favourite, then Bolton manager Sam Allardyce tried to persuade the Spaniard to sign a contract extension for one more year but Hierro decided against it and announced his retirement at the end of the season.

Having seen a Spanish legend at a small club in Greater Manchester was truly something spectacular!

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Edited by Aakanksh Sanketh