A legend in the realm of football commentary is John Motson. With a career spanning more than five decades, he is considered as one of the best football pundits of all time. Sadly, he has died today aged 77 years old.
In 1945, Motson was born in Salford, England. He went to University College, Cardiff, to study politics and history. After earning his degree, he worked as a reporter for the Barnet Press before being hired as a sports reporter by the BBC in 1968.
When asked to commentate on a match between Everton and Derby County in 1971, Motson had his big break. Afterwards, he reported on some of the most important games in football’s past, such as the World Cup and European Championship finals.
Commentary by Motson has a distinct, recognised style. He had a distinctive voice that was frequently mimicked but never imitated exactly. He was renowned for having a comprehensive grasp of the sport and for being able to express to his listeners the drama and excitement of a contest.
The quarterfinal match between England and Argentina in the 1986 World Cup is when Motson made his most well-known commentary. He memorably cried out, “Maradona has scored the goal. Shilton has lost to him! And he succeeds! Hey, you have to say that’s fantastic!” Diego Maradona exclaimed after scoring his notorious “Hand of God” goal “goal.
Motson was renowned for his interest in statistics as well as his memory for difficult data. He frequently injected interesting tidbits about the players, clubs, and venues into his comments.
Motson left the BBC in 2018 after 50 years of employment there. The FA Cup final between Chelsea and Manchester United served as his last game. He was applauded by the audience and recognised by his teammates for his commitment to the sport.
In addition to his job as a commentator, Motson has authored a number of football-related publications. In “Motty’s Diary: A Year in the Life of a Commentator,” his most well-known piece, he details his experiences during the 1994–1995 football season.
It is impossible to dispute Motson’s legacy in football analysis. Generations of commentators have been influenced by him, and his unique approach will be cherished for a very long time. It is impossible to emphasise how much he contributed to the game, and he will always be regarded as one of the best football pundits in history.
We will always look back fondly on him, probably the greatest English football commentator of all time.
