Happy New Year

I am an Andy Murray fan.

Can I say firstly that this is not a tribal thing. I was also a great admirer of Tim Henman.

I supported Tim through all the oohs, aahs, near misses, disappointments and tears. Throughout I appreciated his skill and how much he contributed to British tennis. In my opinion, it is travesty that he has never been knighted – or greater still won the Sports Personality of the Year Award.

But of course he has never won a major – or rode a horse!

Andy Murray will win a major. He has phenomenal talent. His reading of the game is second to none and he can destroy an opponent with subtle changes of pace and sheer brain power. No wonder no-one fancies playing him.

He also has a bit of attitude. Now I’ve heard him described as dour, sulky, scruffy, rude, arrogant, in need of a shave, even more in need of a haircut. Now that sounds a bit like me at that age – or maybe even you!

These things are irrelevant. Perfect manners, "jolly good try", and "better luck next time" doesn’t win championships. Winning at all costs does.

2008 could be Andy’s year! We all hope so.

My very best wishes to all my friends and colleagues out there – I hope 2008 is happy and successful for you too.