David Rocastle Remembered: 10 Years On

The midfielder – as loved for his warmth and charm off the pitch as for his skilful contribution to two title-winning sides on it – passed away a decade ago.

The day of his passing, 31 March 2001, happened to coincide with another north London derby. There were fears that the planned minute's silence would not be observed, given the rivalry between the two sides, and even David Pleat, then caretaker manager of Tottenham had advised the referee, Paul Durkin, to blow his whistle to bring it to an end as soon as any there was any interruption from the crowd. In the event, however, the silence was broken only by the sounds of some in the crowd crying.

I was lucky enough to attend that Derby in 2001. The moment of silence was a wonderful tribute...