Hansen's Walcott row proves MOTD is still relevant

I keep hearing that the Match of the Day format is tired and dull but the forthright debates between Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Alan Hansen about Theo Walcott in the last couple of weeks have made for brilliant viewing.

And while I'm defending BBC football, I missed the first Match of the Day 2 and only saw the criticism of new presenter Colin Murray.

Then I watched the next two and couldn't see what all the fuss was about. I thought Murray did a good job.

**

How much of the £18m left over from the sale of James Milner to Manchester City did Aston Villa spend before the transfer window closed last night? That's right. Zip.

It looks as though the financial situation at the club may be worse than people thought.

**

I was pleased for Jamie Mackie when he scored a last-gasp equaliser for QPR against Derby County at the weekend.

Mackie devoted his only day off in the last three weeks to make the long journey to the West Country and back so he could attend the funeral of former Exeter City team-mate Adam Stansfield.

Nice to see another footballer with a touch of class.

Fancy winning £3,000 for FREE this month? Play Mirror Football Streak for your chance to win cash prizes! Start predicting now!

williamhill.com

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