"The result at Anfield was huge, but as you go further through the rounds it gets more important because you're closer to the end, " he said.

BBC: Reading captain Matt Mills thrilled with 'dream' win

And as the years passed by unfortunately it gets more and more important.

CNN: Thompson's September 7, 2007, speech in Des Moines, Iowa

Mr Winner half gets round this point by arguing that in total football, it is far more important to play beautifully than to win.

ECONOMIST: Football