This week, I was sent a few VHS tapes dating back to the early 1990s. Usually, I'm only fussed about old recordings dating from the early to mid-1980s. But these tapes all had something interesting on, so I couldn't resist. And first up, we have a complete episode of Saint & Greavsie dating back to December 1991.
This, of course, was the final season before the behemoth that is the Premier League was born. As such, it's a very different era of both football and the way it's broadcast. Here, we have two old hands - both legends on and off the pitch - in the form of Ian St John and Jimmy Greaves. The humour is old school, but lighthearted. Two old friends having a laugh. It's a world away from the laddish banter that was Soccer AM (and still three years away).
Content wise, it's equally fascinating. Saint and Greavsie have just returned from New York - where Donald Trump helped with the League Cup fifth-round draw - and are casting their attention towards some interesting subjects. Vinnie Jones, freshly signed to Chelsea, takes part in an interview about his career and future (zero mention of Hollywood). The World Cup 94 qualifying groups have been announced, which England will fail to qualify from. Ryan Giggs, who made his debut for Manchester United the season before, is being tipped for the top. And finally, there's the Rumbelows Sprint Challenge heats.
It's a charming slice of yesterday and, held up to the modern age, highlights just how much of a seismic change football has gone through in the last 35 years.
Many thanks to Tim for sending the tape over. More intriguing nuggets of British television to follow!
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