This week’s guest is legendary Irish football commentator, George Hamilton.

George has written his memoirs, The Nation Holds Its Breath, and we discuss his early life growing up in Belfast and chart his path to RTE, via stints alongside a recognisable cast of character at BBC sport and a time presenting current affairs show Good Morning Ulster at the height of the Troubles.

We also talk about the art of commentary: what makes a good one and what makes a bad one? And what is the difference between good radio commentary and good TV commentary?

George remembers his best moments and recalls one or two less-favoured moments, along with the best and worst commentary positions in the world of football.

Plus we talk of his love of Germany, meeting George Best, and how he once wrote a newspaper column under an assumed name...only to annoy one Ronnie Whelan. 

George’s picks were: Hugh McIlvanney’s report of the 1979 FA Cup final; Tor _by Uli Hesse; Back from the Brink _by Paul McGrath

Get in touch with us - email [email protected], or tweet: @gcooney93.

To submit questions to future guests or swap reading recommendations with other listeners, you can join the WhatsApp group. To get involved in the group, add our number 0833930229 on WhatsApp and send us a message to let us know that you'd like to join the group.Please include your email address so that we can confirm your membership.