Football World Cup in Quotes

“I’m not married to David Beckham – I’m not even engaged to him.” England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson on his relationship with his captain during the 2006 Football World Cup.

“We didn’t underestimate them but they were a lot better than we thought.” – Sir Bobby Robson after England sneaked through against Cameroon at the 1990 World Cup.

“The good news for Nigeria is that they’re two-nil down very early in the game.” – Kevin Keegan

“Argentina won’t be at Euro 2000 because they’re from South America.” – Kevin Keegan

“I hear Glenn Hoddle has found God, that must have been one hell of a pass.” – Jasper Carrott

“My parents have been there for me, ever since I was about 7.” – David Beckham

“The Germans only have one player under 22, and he’s 23.” – Kevin Keegan

“Germany are a very difficult team to play – they had 11 internationals out there today.” – Steve Lomas

“England can end the millenium as it started – as the greatest football nation in the world.” – Kevin Keegan

“I’ve never wanted to leave. I’m here for the rest of my life, and hopefully after that as well.” – Alan Shearer

“The Brazilians were South American, the Ukrainians will be more European.” – Phil Neville

“I’m as happy as I can be – but I have been happier.” – Ugo Ehiogu

“Without being too harsh on David Beckham, he cost us the match.” – Ian Wright

“Sometimes in football you have to score goals.” – Thierry Henry

“There’s no in between – you’re either good or bad. We were in between.” – Gary Lineker

“I don’t think there’s anyone bigger or smaller than Maradona.” – Kevin Keegan

Sir Bobby Robson to Bryan Robson: “Good morning, Bobby.”

Bryan: “You’re Bobby, I’m Bryan!”

“I never make predictions, and I never will.” – John Motson, BBC Commentator

“The Uruguayans are losing no time in making a meal around the referee.” – Terry Venables

“Beckenbauer really has gambled all his eggs.” – Ron Atkinson

“That’s football, Mike, Northern Ireland have had several chances and haven’t scored but England have had no chances and scored twice.” – Richard Park

“The only thing I have in common with George Best is that we come from the same place, play for the same club and were discovered by the same man.” – Dennis Law

Jimmy Hill: “Don’t sit on the fence Terry, what chance do you think Germany has got of getting through?”

Terry Venables: “I think it’s fifty – fifty.”