Salut!

We had a very good incentive for beating Arsenal last weekend. Had we done so, the gaffer John Gregory would have given us the whole week off, as there are no club matches this weekend because of all the internationals.

Of course we managed a 0-0 draw, which was a creditable result against the team in second place in the Premiership. We didn't get our seven days off, but the gaffer kindly gave us three days to ourselves this week instead.

It gave me the chance to dust off my golf clubs and see how my swing was, and I really enjoyed getting back out on the course. I played quite well, despite the horrible wet and muddy conditions - it was nice to be out there swinging again.

The golf season is beginning to get going now. The professionals are playing in what is regarded as the "fifth Major", the TPC at Sawgrass, and I enjoy watching Tiger Woods and Co. in action on the television as they warm up for the Masters next month, the first official Major of the season!

During my days off, I also had a visit from my good friend Jose Dominguez, the talented Portuguese winger. Jose and I were very close when we were both at Tottenham, and have remained in contact. He is now playing for Kaiserslautern in Germany - the team who knocked Spurs out of the UEFA Cup last season. But Jose had some time off too and he made a flying visit.

On the subject of Tottenham, I cannot write this column without mentioning George Graham. I have been inundated with requests from people who want to know my feelings about him being sacked suddenly as manager of the club.

All I can say is that I am no longer a Tottenham player, and so I feel it is inappropriate for me to comment on George's departure. I had my say in my recent autobiography and don't feel the need to add any more. However, I must stress that I never had a problem with George Graham as a person, and I wish him every success in whatever he does next.

Back to football, and the next few days are crucial for the England national team. New manager Sven Goran Eriksson got off to a flying start with a 3-0 victory in his first match in charge, the friendly against Spain at our own Villa Park.

I hope that he can pick up where he left off and that England get the results they need to help them qualify for the next World Cup - the tournament wouldn't be the same without them. There is just one Villa player in the squad, goalkeeper David James, and if he is selected then I wish him every success.

As this Sunday is Mother's Day, don't forget to celebrate the wonderful woman in your life.

I hope to be back in action next weekend, so join me then for an update.

A bientôt

David Ginola.

Please note that this news section is updated every Friday afternoon

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