Since retiring from playing football and moving into the media, one thing has never changed – I always do my research. An understanding of what’s in front of me still remains my top priority. If you don’t come prepared, whether you’re a commentator in the media gantry or a foreign manager taking the reins in the Premiership, you’ve got no chance.

Managers more than anyone else need to be prepared. Take the World Cup and Sven Goran Eriksson. He’s certainly been doing his homework over the last couple of years – just look at how eager he’s been to keep a close eye on his squad players, attending matches both at home and on the Continent.