Brian Glanville’s obituary of Jimmy McIlroy (21 August) was factually comprehensive but fails to capture his class, skill and footballing ability in the days of muddy grounds, heavy wet leather balls and the tackling “skills” of the likes of Maurice Setters, Jimmy Scoular and Eddie Clamp.
McIlroy was afforded no protection whatsoever, but thrived in excellent sides at Burnley and Northern Ireland. Beyond his ability on the field, Jimmy Mac was a modest, unassuming, quietly spoken gentleman – a credit to the game and town he graced for many years. The best footballer I have ever seen, though Tom Finney and George Best run him close.
Dr John Lingard
Newcastle upon Tyne
David Conn claims that when Keith Alexander was appointed as Lincoln City’s manager in 1993, he became English football’s “first black manager” (Kick it out reaches major milestone …, 22 August).
But what about the South African wing-half Peter Hauser, who was manager of Chester football club from 1963 to 1968? And before him there was Tony Collins, who was manager at Rochdale FC as early as 1960. It would be a pity if the contribution of these pioneers was overlooked.
Steve Rigby
Sale, Greater Manchester
Your article on the tribulations of José Mourinho (Report, 23 August) notes that “when he [Ferguson] walked away the Ferguson era gave way to the Woodward era”. Is it in any way conceivable that changing from having the club driven by someone who knew something about football to having it led a banker might have something to do with the plight of Manchester United?
Patrick Vallance
London
Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com
Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters