So ends the opening verse of the theme tune to the classic TV western, “Maverick”. Any poker player knows that perception is crucial, that creating an aura of confidence is key to your chances of winning the hand.  A good poker face can compensate for the weakest of hands and has been known to carry…

DATELINE … 7th June 1967 … Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid … Alfredo di Stefano Testimonial … Real Madrid 0   Celtic 1 Magic in Madrid Behind … a season in the sun; ahead … a gauntlet thrown – a clash of titans looming: fertile seeds of legend sown. Aristocratic señors, out to set the record…

According to his biographer, James Boswell, on the evening of 7th April 1775, Dr Samuel Johnson, one of the most celebrated figures in English literature, famously coined the saying, “Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.” He was, of course, referring to false patriotism, NOT genuine devotion to, love of, support for, or defence…

Rumour this morning has it that Rangers and the SFA may be about to try to “cut a deal” over the current turmoil in which they find themselves embroiled … largely of their own mutual making. “CUT A DEAL”, for God’s sake … what effrontery … you couldn’t make it up! So this is what…

What I consider the flagrant abuse by the Administrators’ of Rangers (IA) of the fundamental right to legal protection (a gamble triggered by their arrogant belief that they are fireproof within Scottish football and society), may be about to backfire spectacularly; and has certainly created a massive moral dilemma for the SFA.  Do they follow…

First, a word about Justice: … setting aside the, IMHO, incorrect nature (I seek to infer no more than that) of yesterday’s Court of Session judgement in favour of D & P (which at first glance appears to outrageously favour Rangers but which could potentially blow up in their faces); and looking beyond any arguable mischievous…

Reading this morning’s MSM spin on the latest proposed FOD takeover bid, I found myself wondering whether it was Charles Green, or the legendary 1950’s/60’s radio and television compère, Hughie Green (to whom, incidentally … IMHO …  Charlie boy bears a more than passing resemblance) that is fronting the would-be-saviour consortium. Those of a certain vintage will…

Anybody else spot the delicious irony of Duff & Phelps’ colourful and no doubt technically and legally accurate description of the dire consequences, both of the SFA transfer embargo (imposed and subsequently upheld on appeal) and in the event of their failure to have it rescinded by the court? Utterly irretrievable prejudice, indeed … Johnbhoy

History records that Jock Stein trumped every effort of Helenio Herrera’s to gain an edge for Inter. He ensured that Celtic were accorded training facilities at the Estadio Nacional on the eve of the game at the same time of day as the actual match, despite attempts by Inter to muscle in. He insisted on…