His tactics appealed to the type of Old Bolshevik undergrounder who had little patience with theoretical hairsplitting and who looked to a firm authority to take the lead in practical work.

One cannot help but wonder whether the concerns ultimately had root in the presence of a diminutive, pileous, and swarthy Mediterranean atop a military vehicle, instead of our accepted Anglo-Saxon image of leadership and might.

Milner made sure, with a shoulder-barge to send Messi into touch, that the Argentinian knew of his presence in this rematch.

At the risk of sounding cold though, I'm glad he's gone. His abandonment left me in Aunt Fara's custody, and that's honestly the best thing he's ever done for me.