Tino Asprilla has certainly put himself back in the spotlight at the expense of my club Darlington.

Fair play to the chairman for attempting to sign Asprilla because it would have given the fans and the club a lift, but I for one can't say I'm too disappointed he isn't coming.

Yes, at first I was excited about the chance to play alongside a world class player, but having given it a lot of thought I'm sure it wouldn't have worked out.

The whole episode caused a lot of interest in the club and for a couple of days that's all people wanted to talk about. My mates were even ringing up to see if I could get him out for a night out in Chester-le-Street!

There is a huge difference playing in the Premier League than playing in Division Three. Would Tino have fancied washing his own training kit everyday or travelling six hours on a coach to go and play at places like Torquay or Exeter in front of 3,000 people? Lots of players have dropped down the leagues and struggled to come to terms with the game.

He would certainly have boosted attendances and could have won us a few extra points but on the whole I think we've had a bit of a let-off.

I spoke about Roy Keane last time and again this weekend he is back in trouble. There is something that I still like about him despite the trouble he causes, but I don't think anyone could defend his actions on Saturday against Sunderland.

Sir Alex Ferguson did try to defend him at first, but having seen more TV coverage he had no option but to have a go at him. I can understand Ferguson trying to defend his player as I think wherever possible a manager should take the side of a player.

Some journalists make a living by slagging players off so we do need someone else to fight our corner at times.

Finally, my Middlesbrough under-11 side earned me my first victory as a manager by winning 2-0 at Bolton on Sunday. No doubt Sir Bobby Robson and Peter Reid will be quaking in their boots.

Published: 03/09/2002