"He's got to control his fiery attitude."

- David O'Leary's warning to Alan Smith (above) before Leeds' game yesterday against Aston Villa. In, em, which Smith was sent off.

"I think it's more frustrating for English players in European matches because the interpretations of referees leaves a lot to be desired with the way they officiate."

- David O'Leary, again, blaming European officials for Alan Smith's disciplinary problems. A day ahead of Smith being sent off by an English referee.

"He's supposed to be a candidate for World Footballer of the Year? Give me a break."

- Bayern Munich's Stefan Effenberg, holding David Beckham in lowish esteem.

"I have to show the Everton manager that I am capable of being in, week in week out. If Sven-Goran Eriksson thinks I am good enough to be in the England squad, then brilliant."

- And then Paul Gascoigne (below) woke up.

"There have been a lot of rumours flying around about team-mates sleeping with other players' wives. I can say categorically that it's all bull."

- Ipswich Town's Fabian Wilnis denying that the Tractor boys plough fields other than their own.

"It feels funny when you find yourself faced with a plate of baked beans in ketchup, fish in breadcrumbs, toast and jam."

- Hearts' French striker Stephane Adam on the delights of Scottish cuisine.

"I would go into the dressing-room beforehand and disco music would be blaring out, the kit men were booting tennis balls around and my team-mates would be wolfing down three bananas each minutes before kick-off."

- Marco Materazzi reminisces about his days at Everton.