I WAS IN AWE OF A VOICE THAT HELPED EVERYONE RELAX

IT WAS a privilege to work with Jimmy Armfield and it was always a pleasure to be in his company. Warm, genuine, kind, caring and he always had time for everyone. Words cannot do him justice, a true gentleman. One of my first games for Radio 5 Live in 2002 was with Jimmy. I phoned my parents as soon as I knew, it meant that much to me. I was in awe of him but my nerves were soothed as he put me at ease and at the end of my commentary stint, he placed his hand on my knee with a reassuring tap. And that was Jim, you could relax, he made you feel comfortable. Such qualities endeared him to

the intimate medium of radio, and were one of many reasons why he was so popular with the listeners. A distinctive voice, a natural enthusiasm for the game that has never waned, a voice of authority and respect — he never said things for effect, he was a voice that remained relevant. One match stands out that says everything about Jimmy. It was October 28, 2007 and Bolton Wanderers were at home. This was his return to the commentary box after his first battle with cancer. We arrived at the same time and we collected our media accreditation. There was a letter for Jimmy — on Manchester United headed paper it read: ‘Welcome back, Jimmy. We have missed you. Alex and Bobby.’ So it was from Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton and United were not even playing, it was Bolton versus Aston Villa! He was moved by that gesture, it meant everything to him, but he tucked the envelope into his jacket and didn’t want to make a fuss about it on air. He was a footballing great but he never wanted to be the centre of attention. He would arrive, always early with a little notebook in hand, with how he thought the two teams would line up. He didn’t require anything else, the rest he knew and that’s why he could speak with such authority because of his vast knowledge as a player and a manager. I’ve kept in touch with Jimmy and the last 14 months have been horrendous for him but even then, not one to complain or moan, he was dignified as ever. He said: ‘Football has kept me going.’ The last time we spoke was brief because he was struggling. He said: ‘Thanks son, thanks for ringing.’ Thank you Jimmy, it’s been an honour.