What is your highlight from 2006?

Seeing England Under-21s qualify for the European Championship Finals in June 2007 and seeing England’s senior women qualify for the World Cup in China.

What was your favourite game from 2006?

The FA Cup Final between West Ham and Liverpool. It was a great game although not the outcome I would have liked with my East End connections. It was a classic match – goals, near misses, injuries, penalty shoot-out, two passionate sets of fans.

What was your favourite goal from 2006?

I think Matthew Taylor’s amazing volley against Everton recently takes some beating. To actually see the opportunity, have the confidence, and then deliver the perfect technical volley from some 40 yards was a fantastic achievement. All those hours of practice enabled Matt to make his decision within a second or two, and will give him immense satisfaction for years to come.

What are your hopes for 2007?

To see success in the men’s Under-21s Euros and women’s senior World Cup efforts. To launch a successful ‘skill coach’ programme for five-11s, and also introduce a new, stronger coaching philosophy across the game to improve technical skills.

Players/teams to look out for in 2007?

To look out for the young English players who can come through the under-21s during Euro Finals and stake a push for senior recognition.

How will you be spending the Christmas period?

Looking forward to a family Christmas with my wife Hilkka, daughter Collette, son-in-law Ryland (Man United fan), and 21 month old grandson Henry James. Little Henry will no doubt be a major focus of attention as he is a lively, happy boy who will be sure to leave us all exhausted by early evening. Will watch a few West Ham matches and hope new manager Alan Curbishley can manage a few Christmas league points.

New Year’s resolution?

New Year’s resolutions are set to be broken, but early aspirations will include additional visits to the gym to stop fitness levels deteriorating still further – and reduce chocolate consumption too.