Peter Worthington has had an amazing life. And his obituary, which he wrote himself, certainly has an arresting opening line.
I was listeining to 'Bowtime' on the way home today with Adrian Durham and ex-footballer Ray Houghton and they were discussing how Thierry Henry would be remembered after he hangs up his boots.
As many of you will know, Henry handled the ball in the build to a goal that eliminated Ireland from the World Cup. If your memory is a bit foggy, I suggest you talk to Mr. McGuinness about it who, judging by his Facebook status, isn't quite over it yet.
FIFA's disciplinary committee ruled that they had no legal right to punish Henry and he appears to have been 'let off the hook', shall we say.
Durham and Houghton were discussing what should happen to Henry, with the former suggesting he retires from international football to save face, which, in my view, isn't a bad idea. However, Houghton, a Scotsman that played for Ireland (work that out), went as far to say that Henry will now forever be remembered for that handball and that his reputation as being a prolific striker and world class performer will be left in tatters.
I disagree. I believe that, much like Maradona in England, his 'crime' will only be truly remembered in the country that was on the recieving end. As a football lover and an admirer of Henry's abilities, I and hopefully most other people will remember the man that scored some terrific goals. Like this... like this and this, this and as much as it pains me to say it... this.
Damn right I'm not over it! I hated Henry before the handball - it just served to heighten it. There's no doubting he's a great player, but what he did will damage his reputation, and not just amongst us Paddies.
...and many in Ireland now refuse to use Henry Hoovers.