Here are some notable quotes made during the past year. Each was stated by the named individual; however, my responses were created, and are not meant to represent the views of the individuals. Nor libel them in any way. This is both a factual and (hopefully) a light-hearted article.

1. “Over the years, Dida has shown himself to be a very professional and sporting athlete, who even got back up after he was hit by a firework.”

Carlo Ancelotti, manager of AC Milan. No wonder why Dida was so dazed in Glasgow not to see anything more threatening than a crazed but very unprofessional and unsporting Celtic fan. Without fireworks.

2. “Now I will give up smoking. After a very difficult year we have won something extraordinary so there is plenty of happiness and satisfaction. We did great things because there was little hope.”

Carlo Ancelotti, who had promised his children he would stop smoking if Milan won the Champions League. The Italians beat Liverpool in May’s final. Athens and Milan did not burn.