Well, finally 'God' has apologised, sort of. In an interview with The Sun, Maradona said with customary modesty, 'If I could apologise and go back and change history I would do. But the goal is still a goal, Argentina became world champions and I was the best player in the world.'
Here in Buenos Aires, the news is attracting the attention of all the news channels. The biggest daily paper ClarÃÂn has even launched a vote asking: 'Did Maradona do the right thing by asking for an apology from the English for the goal he scored with his hand?' Predictably the results stands at 65 per cent saying he shouldn't have asked for an apology. An incredible 2000 people voted within half hour of the poll being. If you want to add your vote head here.
Daily sports paper Olé have already posted their shocked reaction: 'In an exclusive interview with the sensationalist newspapers The Sun, the best player of all time ASKED FOR FORGIVENESS for the goal baptised La Mano de Dios,' it quivered. (Just in case it's not etched in your memory here it is again. And just in case you wondered why he still matters see this.)
Diego also revealed that he was considering a move to the country of Argentina's arch footballing enemy, and admitted 'informal' talks with Premiership bosses including Chelsea's Avram Grant.
Maradona, sorry, God holds a unique status in Buenos Aires. Although the 47-year-old is recognised as a flawed character, he is idolised and every word he says analyzed ad infinitum.
And as I listen to BBC 6 Music (an upset sounding) Steve Lamacq is asking for songs to commemorate the story. Suggestions so far have included Touched by the Hand of God by New Order, All Apolgises - Nirvana, It's Too Late - Carole King. Any ideas?
