Excitement & emotion is part of football... even in the commentary box

THE language of football has changed - and the language of football commentary has evolved with it.

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Gone are the days when matches were live on TV only a couple of times a season, with one voice providing the soundtrack to the FA Cup final or England v Scotland.

Now it's a game of podcasts, phone-ins, data, fan TV, co-commentators and social media all providing information, stats, opinions and fuelling the narrative.

There was criticism when Rio Ferdinand and I became a bit excitable in the commentary box as Manchester United overturned a 4-2 deficit in extra time to beat Lyon 5-4 (far right), one of the most incredible finishes to a game you will ever see.

Some of the comments questioned whether Rio's contribution was impartial given his 455 appearances and 10 major trophies, including six titles, as a United player (right).

But I defy anyone - whether you played the game for United or another club - not to be excited by such an extraordinary finish.