Quinny - "I miss football"

Following the ceremony yesterday where he received an honourary MBE, Sunderland legend Niall Quinn has been speaking briefly about his career in British football.

After leaving his home in the Irish Republic, Quinn played for Arsenal, Manchester City then Sunderland as well as representing his national team and becoming their all-time top scorer.

Since retiring from football, Niall and his family have moved back to their native Ireland and live in County Kildare. Quinny has been doing some punditry duties for Sky TV and also writes a regular column for the Irish Independent newspaper.

Speaking to the newspaper, the man known to many as 'Discopants' recalled his inspiration to do well for his home country if ever he got the chance: "I remember a tube strike in 1984 and walking to the match when England beat Ireland and I thought to myself, if I could get back here and score for Ireland I'd be very proud."

And being characteristically modest about being Ireland's top scorer, he said "There are people who say I missed more chances than any other player as well!

"It was great and it's in the history books. But Robbie Keane is going to destroy it, double it and the sooner the better."

"Brian Kerr is doing an astonishing job. I'm sure we'll qualify and I'm really enjoying watching it.

"Since retiring I don't miss the travelling and the gimmickry stuff - but I do miss kicking a ball around!"