I know there was a short thread about Glen Hoddle yesterday but can’t find it! Just wanted to relate a story about meeting him in a pub once. It was in Harlow where a mate of mine lived. It must have been November 1979 because he’d just been called up to the England team for the first time. He was a top young player at the time and certainly one of the most cultured midfield players England has ever produced. He lived in Harlow and even though a star at Spurs and still early in his career was well known for his work with young players in the town. He still went to the local pub with lads he grew up with. I got chatting to him and he was very open and forthcoming about his life in football. Was knowledgable about lower league teams and Barnsley in particular which surprised me. I offered to buy him a pint but he was at the bar buying a round and got me one instead. A real gent and nice guy. I hope he recovers well and I can buy him back that pint if I ever bump into him again.
Nice story that mate I had the pleasure of seeing him play for England and Tottenham and my word what a silky smooth footballer he was. I hope he gets thru this sad period and regains full health
A brilliant footballer, arguably one of the best midfielders this country has ever produced. I was only talking about him with my eldest son on the way to the game yesterday (before I heard the news about him) and comparing him to the players in the current England team. I can't believe he only got 53 caps. Speedy recovery Glenn.
There was a lot more competition for places back in the 70s and 80s. I couldn't believe the other day that Joe Royle, Malcolm MacDonald and Bob Latchford only won 32 caps between them.
There have been some terrific players who didn't win as many caps as they should have with Hoddle just being one of many. Such a shame because he was a phenomenal talent.
It seems to affect the flair players more than the solid ones for some reason - Hoddle definitely should have played more for England as should for example Matt Le Tissier. Wishing Hoddle a speedy recovery - hopefully he was treated in time and can make a full recovery
