"It's gonna be a do or die issue, it's gonna be war. It's gonna be physical, it's gonna be obstructive and there will be animosity. It's gonna be war." The sedate and understated views of Inter Milan's Nigerian star Taribo West before last Wednesday's UEFA Cup final against Lazio. West was sent off during the match for striking an opponent on the ground.

"I've seen the replay and it does look bad, but I did not really mean it. If the FA does anything, I will try to explain. I totally apologise for it, but I have to get stuck in. The ball is there to be won."

Don Hutchinson's rather rambling and confused act of contrition for the Everton player's X- rated tackle on Arsenal's French midfielder Emmanuel Petit.

"To be honest, I was living it up and suffering from too many hangovers. I just wasn't going in to practise some days, I'd be lying in bed thinking that it would do tomorrow. I didn't give the game the respect it deserves, I was probably too busy having fun."

New world snooker champion John Higgins offers a sober view of a troubled period in his fledgling career.

"I love the players, I love their skills, but really there is just too much pressure here. I don't like it when people keep coming into my office and punching me in the face."

Paul Dolezar outlines the reason why he is resigning after just one season in charge of legendary Soweto team, the Kaizer Chiefs.