The Ambler Online

Five years ago, Ashington born Steve Harmison was hailed as England’s best bowler, when they won the Ashes against Australia. Five years on he has been discarded by the England selectors for the present tour in South Africa even though he was Durham’s top wicket taker last season. Naturally, Steve is furious at being left out of such a prestigious tour, not only for the humiliation but also the loss of huge financial rewards.

What is behind it? I would answer “Lethargy”. A former England cricket captain, in a national newspaper, claimed that Steve was late for training sessions on several occasions and his demeanor on the field is not always good.

A high standard of fitness is always essential, no matter how talented the player in whatever sport, if the player is to perform at the highest level.

The great Stanley Matthews continued to train with the same enthusiasm in his late 40s when playing for Blackpool, and of course provided the pass that resulted in the winning goal against Bolton Wanderers in the 1953 Cup Final. Especially great for me: Stanley described me as ‘unbeatable’ and called me ‘the octopus’.

Newcastle United continue to hog the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

Attempting to lose the name of St. James’ Park is ludicrous. I can’t see it happening, but perhaps (tongue in cheek) Complex Park would fit the bill. However, the club has at least made one good decision - installing Chris Hughton as fulltime manager. he is doing a great job and the players are responding to his quiet demeanor by performing well on the pitch.

With the forthcoming World Cup in mind, the France v Republic of Ireland match has let all hell loose. All I will say is that throughout football history referees have won and lost matches with wrong decisions. This won’t change until, as in cricket and rugby, play will be brought to a standstill until an official camera solves the issue - it hardly bears thinking about!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who sent letters and cards of condolence following the death of my dear wife, Norma. Sixty years does seem a long time together but it has gone in the blink of an eye. So many memories and images manifest themselves in my head - it is unrelenting.

When a couple have lived together for such a long time, they should be allowed to fade away together when it is time to go.

In an effort to finish with a sense of humour: Woody Allen, the American comedian, said that to die was no problem. He just didn’t want to be there when it happened!

And so say all of us.

Ray

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