Dominic Matteo was born in Dumfries in 28 April 1974; his father, who "wanted his boy to play like Cesare Maldini", ran Matthew's Cafe in Friars Vennel. His father had Italian heritage, and was a keen follower of European football. The family moved to Southport in late 1978. Matteo was spotted playing for Birkdale United by Liverpool player Kenny Dalglish, who had originally gone to Birkdale United just to watch his son, Paul Dalglish. He progressed to a YTS contract at the age of 16. His versatility counted against him, as he was asked to play several positions in the reserve team and subsequently failed to establish himself in one position. However, he impressed enough to win a one-year professional contract at the age of 18. He then signed a new two-year contract in 1993.