So sorry Hod, it’s in Rod we trust

Hod and Rod. Two men made for centre stage inched back into the glare this week.

In his book A Football Man, John Giles explained why Glenn Hoddle, even after 50 England caps, was still regarded as “promising”. “When he had the time and space he could have a series of matches in which he was outstanding. But this would lead to closer marking and because of his lack of sharpness in tight situations, he couldn’t lose his marker. So he would become anonymous for a few games,” wrote Gilesy.

“Opponents then relaxed a bit, giving him the freedom and space to show his class.”