I HAVE enjoyed reading Sophie McGill's column until now. But I totally disagree with her comments about Alan Hansen (June 26).

I quote Sophie: "The only fly in the ointment was the depressing Alan Hansen, whose negativity shines through every comment and clich he utters.

"Why, oh why do they insist on employing this pundit to comment on England performances when he is secretly willing for us to lose every challenge and miss every free kick and penalty awarded our way."

This is utter tosh. Do you understand Alan's hard Scottish accent, Sophie? You must have listened to a different programme to me. He is one of the fairest commentators in the business. Stick to your 'City' job which I believe you are good at and leave unjust comments on a man who knows his trade alone.

JA Croft,

Brockfield Park Drive, York.

Updated: 10:48 Thursday, July 01, 2004