Skip to main content
Gifts from The Morning Star
The duality of life as a sports journalist and football fanatic
LAYTH YOUSIF battles with his different perspectives of the beautiful game as both a journalist and a fan - and clarifies when it’s appropriate to celebrate
Arsenal's Ashburton Grove

ONE of the things I’ve enjoyed the most about being a journalist and sports reporter is savouring the game as a neutral. 

Of course, as a football supporter of more than 40 years I also relish matches. But in a completely different way. 

You kick every ball as a fan, and when an opposition player might perform a piece of skill, or score a spectacular goal against your team, you simply cannot enjoy it. 

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Arsenal manager Renee Slegers and Alessia Russo applaud the
Women’s Football / 14 February 2025
14 February 2025
Gooner Fanzine produces first-ever print issue dedicated solely to AWFC
Manchester City's Mary Fowler (centre right) celebrates with
Women's football / 7 February 2025
7 February 2025