The Dutch appreciate space more than any other, centuries of foraging for their own has given them an undeniable sense and acute awareness of space and how best to utilize it. In his tremendous book “Brilliant orange” David Winner marks space as the unique defining element of Dutch football. Flexible space was the mantra of one of the greatest club sides ever seen, the hypnotic rhythm of Ajax led by Cruyff et al passed and moved their way to three consecutive European cups, and as one casts their eyes over the current European champions it is that same special awareness that is the hallmark of a ginger beacon that has shone at old trafford for more than a decade.

Continue reading “Ode to a Prince”

Champions of the world, that’s who.

I’m elated. Celebrated Rooney’s goal like a loon. There’s been a lot of cynicism towards the merits of this tournament, mostly from bitter rivals – who’d secretly love to have the chance to be there – but disappointingly from United fans as well. I don’t know whether it’s just snobbery or an insular parochial view to football in general, but it’s unjustified.

Continue reading “Who the f*** are Man United?”