JOHN Motson is a football legend. Famed for his sheepskin coat and almost obsessive knowledge of the sport, the Salford-born BBC commentator is as popular as the players he talks about.

So easily can he recount football facts and statistics in his commentaries, it is hard to believe that the game does not occupy his every waking hour. But that is far from the truth, according to Motty.

He tells me he is currently reading a novel by crime queen Ruth Rendell.

He says: "It is very good. She is a wonderful writer. I read a lot of detective stories. I enjoy them very much." Then, getting more animated, he adds: "But obviously I also read a lot of football books, too."

TO read this article in full, see Tuesday's M.E.N. (May 11).

John Motson will be signing copies of his new book, Motson's National Obsession, at Waterstone's in St. Ann's Square, Manchester, tomorrow at 12.30pm. For more information call 0161 832 0424. Tweet