Nicholson tribute hits the right note

His players loved him. They may not have thought that at the time they played for him, but it was clear enough yesterday as they paid their personal tributes.

Jones recalled: "I remember feeling really pleased with myself after playing a good game until Bill said: 'Remember, son, a pat on the back is only two feet away from a kick up the arse!'"

Hoddle, an apprentice in Nicholson's final year as manager, remembered a similar experience. "I'd scored a hat-trick for the youth team and the following morning the manager said: 'Young Hoddle, your third goal - - you took a big risk with that. You should have passed.'"

Steve Perryman, whose 17 year career was launched by Nicholson in 1969, said: "I never saw a hair out of place. He had the shiniest shoes, creases in his trousers that you could cut with - - and a hatred of anything red!"

This, of course, touched a chord, especially as Tottenham face Arsenal at White Hart Lane on Saturday. The crowd laughed and, among the special guests, Arsenal's David Dein and Ken Friar smiled wryly.

In all, six players addressed the crowd - - Greaves, Jones, Chivers, Perryman, Hoddle and Mabbutt. Each of them talked with eloquence and affection, recalling a time in football's history when values were different and clubs recognised that success was built on stability and loyalty.

Tottenham have had precious little of either in recent years. Four managers in just over a year is a recipe for nothing but disaster though Martin Jol will try his hardest to break this cycle of mediocrity if he's confirmed as Jacques Santini's successor today.

Nicholson, the last Tottenham manager to win the title in the fabled double year of 1961, set a standard that all his successors have tried to emulate. He wanted not just to win, but win with style. "He gave a generation of fans something they will never forget," said Greaves.

The film on the big screens at White Hart Lane evoked memories of the Nicholson legacy. Those fans old enough, remembered what it used to be like when the Lilywhites ruled and slim Jim could walk the ball into the net.

At the end Bill's daughter Linda thanked everyone - - particularly the supporters. "We know dad loved you as much as you loved him," she said.

A final prayer and blessing, and then Brian Alexander, a solemn and sensitive MC, triggered the release of 85 white doves in honour of each year of Bill's life.

As they disappeared out of the stadium we listened to the words of Julia Ward Howe's ballad that Tottenham fans adopted decades ago: "He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never sound retreat, he is sifting out the hearts of men before his judgement seat."

Sitting in judgement Bill, I suspect, would have approved.

Glory, glory, hallelujah!