A notable number of former players have joined the ranks of the vying television broadcasting corporations in order to forge careers as football pundits, making the difficult transition from successful athlete to engaging and insightful studio analyst. With their quirks and catch phrases, bringing both wry entertainment and grating irritation, pundits are polarising figures; Andy Townsend’s continual reference to each of the goals in the plural and Garth Crooks’ comical over-exaggeration of the blindingly obvious in a manner that implies he has just revealed the meaning of life, which is alarmingly combined with dramatic physical movements and an unnerving lingering stare, are obvious frustrating instances.
The following is a top ten list of those who have developed credible reputations, or perhaps more likely, managed to annoy or bore the fewest number of viewers, whilst plying their trade in visual media.
1. Alan Hansen
Despite making the unfortunate statement “you never win anything with kids” prior to Manchester United’s league triumph with unknown youngsters, including a certain David Beckham, the BBC pundit, and ex-Liverpool centre-back, Alan Hansen is surely the number one pick. Hansen’s revealing analysis, insightful informational pieces, and respected position as part of a strong and experienced Match of the Day line-up, in addition to his inoffensive style and entertaining appreciation of a strong defensive unit, make him an exceptional pundit.
2. Andy Gray
Andy Gray, like Hansen a Scotsman, has developed a reputation as a man who ‘talks sense’ whilst working for Sky Sports. Admittedly Gray does not possess universal popularity, with accusations of bias common, he provides articulate, engaging, and intelligent analysis. His numerous catch phrases and minor celebrity status have led to his incorporation within the EA sports FIFA series as a commentator alongside Martin Tyler, thus immortalising his place in punditry.
3. Ian Wright
The former prolific striker is one of the best of a new breed of football pundits. Despite having a clear, yet perhaps understandable, soft spot for Shaun Wright-Philips and the English national side, Wright is passionate, knowledgeable, and energetic. He has had a slightly controversial beginning as, whilst claiming to have been labelled a jester in contrast to the ‘shirts’ Mark Lawrenson and Alan Hansen, he parted ways with the BBC in order to be taken more seriously. Wright could certainly develop into a top pundit with a complementary blend of incisive analysis, passion, and a down to earth persona, and he has continued to be involved in punditry through TalkSPORT radio and by making guest appearances on television.
4. Chris Kamara
Chris Kamara provides excellent entertainment in contrast to the many serious and somewhat staid pundits who dominate television. He may not provide the incisive analysis that some pundits do, but he has developed cult hero status due to his infectious laugh and warm personality. Kamara appears to possess a genuine passion and excitement for the game, which is greatly needed in face of the many stern pundits who reek of negativity. Kamara’s highlights include his numerous references to beavers during a Spurs Arsenal game, including the statement “they’re fighting like beavers”, and quotes such as: “obviously I can’t tell you the teams, but Wigan are unchanged and Lucas Neill plays for West Ham”. Kamara’s hilarious in-game report during a Fulham and Middlesbrough match for Sky is also well worth checking out.
5. Gary Lineker
The exceptionally popular potato snack thief, who heads the BBC’s flagship football program Match of the Day, has to be included in this list. Following a successful career as an England poacher, netting 48 goals in 80 international appearances, Lineker has developed a respectable career as an amiable television personality. He leaves detailed analysis for his studio partners, instead concentrating on providing a friendly and professional presentation for what, for many, is his show.
6. Paul Merson
Another reasonably new pundit, the former Arsenal and Villa man has been plying his trade with Sky Sports since hanging up his boots, and has shown himself capable of both strong analysis and daring, yet well contended, predictions. He may not be the best, but he is reliable, down to earth, and thoroughly entertaining.
7. Mark Lawrenson
The former Liverpool man made over 300 appearances for the Reds during his playing career, forging a strong defensive partnership with Alan Hansen which has now been transferred into the BBC studio. Lawrenson is hardly the most inspiring of pundits, becoming a rather polarising figure amongst fans and the target of comical impersonations, yet he provides considered, if not at times short and rather harsh, honest answers.
8. Ally McCoist
Before giving up his position on ITV’s Champions League program and the BBC’s Question of Sport for an assistant managerial role at Glasgow Rangers, McCoist was developing a successful career in punditry. McCoist provided both entertainment and interesting post-game commentary, but the lure of Rangers, where he played more than 400 games and scored 251 goals, was too strong. ITV lost a good new prospect, and they don’t look like getting him back soon, but perhaps he may return for the World Cup.
9. Lee Dixon
The final BBC pundit to feature in this list, and further evidence of the BBC’s excellent array of pundits, Dixon appears to be following in the footsteps of Hansen and Lawrenson. What the former Arsenal defender perhaps lacks in star quality he makes up for in considered opinion and he is one who will surely be around for some time to come.
10. Steve McManaman
The ex-Liverpool, Real Madrid, and England winger had a successful spell with Setanta before the broadcaster transformed into ESPN UK. His flashy style led many to expect him to do well, but McManaman has now expressed an interest in management, perhaps only leaving guest television appearances for the time being. Another to be seen during the World Cup, maybe?