Why I'm rooting for an Italian referee at the World Cup
By
Adrian Chiles
Summary
Adrian Chiles reflects on his lifelong habit of needing to root for someone in any sporting contest, from childhood fandom of West Brom to supporting friends' sons in school matches. He reveals his surprising new fixation at the World Cup: rooting for a wise and gentle Italian referee, finding unexpected comfort and admiration in the official's calm, fair presence rather than any team or player.
Source

Key quotes
· 3 pulledI've never been able to watch a sporting contest without picking a team or a person to root for.
I thought I'd grow out of it, but it's getting worse. And it has gone far.
I must need the anxiety to feel alive.
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