So the World Cup is over. England were awful, Germany likeable, Brazil disappointing and finally, Italy triumphant.

The final will be remembered for what is being universally referred to as Zinedine Zidane's 'Moment of Madness'. I was extremely upset at first, Zidane is an idol of mine and the thought of his farewell and legacy being tarnished was tough to take.

But the reaction of the press in England and France has varied enormously. James Lawton in the Independent has been true to form - 'a disgrace to the game, an act of betrayal' etc etc while the French have forgiven their hero already - and marked his retirement simply by thanking him for his wonderful contribution to their nation. A stark contrast indeed to the column inches of vitriol that were poured upon David Beckham by the English media following his indiscretion at France 1998.

I'm biased and I know we always make excuses for those we love but my memory of the great man will not be tarnished. Yes, it was dumb but which of us has never done anything dumb? Five Live were comparing him to Eric Cantona last night which is ludicrous. Quite apart from the fact that Cantona attacked a supporter, he was not fit to lace Zidane's boots as a player, let alone insult his mother.

When I think of Zinedine Zidane, I shall continue to think of the two goals that won the World Cup for France, the sublime volley that won the 2002 European Cup and countless examples of the balance, passing and vision that made him the best player in the world over the last 15 years. He'll always be a hero to me. Cheers Zizou!