Sunday, 7 August 2016

Day 660, Height of skill


He was only five foot nine but was a goalkeeper of tremendous ability.  He played for England a few times as well as club football for Sheffield United.  In the opinion of my Dad Hodgkinson didn't get the recognition he deserved but he was one of the best keepers he'd ever watched play.  This lack of recognition may have been partly due to his height.

Before Hodgkinson started it there was no specialist coaching for goalkeepers.  He went on to produce the first goalkeeping training courses for UEFA and coached players for many clubs, including international.

There's no sentiment about 'the old days', his view was always forward thinking and one of embracing change.  He appears pretty sanguine about many events, such as when his testimonial money of £7000 'disappears' he effectively shrugs his shoulders and doesn't complain.

It's a book.  It's about football.  It contains anecdotes and humorous stories, and he comes across as someone that put a great deal of thought and consideration into things.



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