RIP John Motson
The former commentator and much-loved sporting figure, John Motson, has died at the age of 77.
Motson was best known for his time as a commentator with the BBC, starting his career with the company in 1971 after finishing his professional footballing days with Dulwich Hamlet and was regularly spotted wearing a sheepskin jacket.
He commentated on over 2000 games however his most iconic is the famous FA Cup tie between Hereford United and Newcastle United in which Ronnie Radford scored the winning goal for Hereford.
His famous line: “Oh what a goal! Radford the scorer. Ronnie Radford! And the crowd are on the pitch. What a tremendous shot by Ronnie Radford,” is considered one of the most famous lines of sporting commentary.
But in Ireland, he’ll always be remembered for how he called Robbie Keane’s famous goal vs Germany at the 2002 World Cup.
"Look at these scenes, just look at these scenes." 🎙️
John Motson, we salute you🇮🇪🫡pic.twitter.com/m7O4vpmfTf
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) February 23, 2023
After almost 30 years commentating on some of the biggest domestic and international fixtures, Motson announced his retirement before returning to work for TalkSPORT in July, 2018.
A statement from his family said:
“It is with great sadness that we announce that John Motson OBE died peacefully in his sleep today.”
Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell was one of those to pay tribute, tweeting: “Rest in Peace John “Motty” Motson an absolute legend and gentleman.”
Comedian David Baddiel also said: “John Motson. Oy. Feels impossible: a voice that, at one time, *was* football. RIP.
Related links:
- John Motson reveals his top ten football matches in history
- John ‘Motty’ Motson reveals his top 50 football matches in history
- The reason why ITV commentator Clive Tyldesley left the World Cup early
