Letters: Today's footballers could learn a lot from Bauld, Buckley et al

YOUR report (29 July) on Peter Houston of Dundee United warning his then player, David Goodwillie, against a move to one of the Old Firm clubs reminded me again why I detest modern football.

My generation witnessed the likes of Willie Bauld, Paddy Buckley, Lawrie Reilly, Charlie Tully and George Young. Yes, they could be hard men on the field of play - but always gentlemen when off it.

Douglas Bain

Oxgangs Drive,

Edinburgh

It's just about the social occasion for Twickers fans

THE news that the warm-up match between England v Wales on Saturday attracted an audience of capacity 82,000 did not surprise me. Any event at Twickenham will always attract a capacity audience because of its location and the fact that many of those that attend do not know one end of the oval ball from any other, nor do they understand the rules of the game, but that they go there for the "social occasion"!

We enjoy our rugby without having to indulge in all of this circus of attractions (or distractions). We always look forward to our visit to Murrayfield, which still has a friendly atmosphere (despite the much-lamented "car park" experience!)

David Turnbull

Thornybauk

Edinburgh

Hearts fans shouldn't be sad to see the back of Jefferies

While the timing of Jim Jefferies' departure is not ideal, the fact that Hearts have not won a game since March, coupled with the poor performance last Sunday required corrective action.

Kilmarnock supporters were not sad to see the back of Jim Jefferies and realistic Hearts supporters should be like-minded.

Eddie Thorn

Craigleith Road,

Edinburgh

Paul and Delia have played big part in Norwich's rise

NORWICH born and raised and a big fan of the same, I want to thank Alan Pattullo (Sport, 6 August) for a great article on Paul Lambert. How refreshing it is to once again see our great little club properly run and properly managed. The result is evidenced on the pitch. My club was once a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. We have had some great and colourful managers for our club. Given its size, to once again realise Premiership membership is remarkable. This time around it is a big thank you to Paul and also to Delia Smith who has hung in and supported the club through thick and thin. A true family club with family values. Thank you again for a great read!

Alan Dunnell

Ohio,

United States