Spoiler

Get well soon, John Hartson

A Premier League legend is winning The Good Fight

Just a quick note to say how delighted I am that John Hartson appears to be winning a battle with cancer that came perilously close to claiming his life.

Yes, he was a little overweight in his prime, and yes, his temper often got the better of him, but the Welshman one of the great characters from the game, and is also responsible for one of the best memories I have as a football fan.

On the 5th June 2000, Wimbledon were trailing 2-1 at home to Aston Villa, when the Welshman headed a 90th minute equaliser that looked like it would saved us from relegation. For some, it was just another goal that would take up a minute or two on Match of the Day, but to me, it was a truly euphoric moment. A moment that explains the illogical love affair that most of us share with the game.

Incidentally, if Liverpool had felt like qualifying for the Champions League instead of rolling over to Bradford on the last day of the season, this goal may have saved Wimbledon from the drop. Speculation and lamentation aside, the shirt he wore on that fateful day against Aston Villa is framed and signed on my bedroom wall, serving as a reminder of one of the most interesting and talented footballers the Premiership have ever seen. And before you ask, yes, it is a size XL.

We wish you a speedy recovery, John.

• John Hartson