Brian Kerr is a national treasure. The guru of Ireland's underage success in the 1990's, before going on to have an underrated spell in charge of the senior team, Kerr is one of the most highly thought of footballing minds on this island.
The fact that he is not involved with moulding young footballers in this country remains a travesty, but at least it allows him to spend plenty of time on our television screens. His commentary and punditry style has made for fantastic viewing in the past few years, with his star rising even further after the World Cup in Russia last summer.
Tonight, Kerr is on commentary duty for Arsenal's Europa League tie in Belarus against BATE Borisov. Having fallen behind just before half time, The Gunners thought they had equalised at the start of the second period. However, the goal was correctly ruled out for offside.
It was a tight call, but the linesman got it spot on. Kerr was very complimentary towards the ability of assistant referees in commentary:
Brian Kerr defending linesmen:
"Have you ever tried it, Conor? It's an awful job!"
Reminds us of something... 🤔 pic.twitter.com/1jAtfITaKZ— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 14, 2019
Kerr sounded like he was speaking from personal experience, like he knew how easy it was to mess things up as a linesman. Turns out, that's exactly what he was doing.
Virgin Sport were quick to dig out this tweet which featured an old newspaper article about Kerr's exploits as a linesman, and it makes for fantastic reading.
Ah yes, reminds us of this... 😂https://t.co/3WaLCArICJ
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 14, 2019
It recalls when Kerr stood in to help out during a League of Ireland 'B' contest between Shamrock Rovers and Home Farm, and he didn't sound like the most impartial of match officials. The article stated:
Home Farm's Brian Kerr took too active a part in the game and was sent off in the 88th minute.
Yesterday the FAI disciplinary committee fined Kerr £20 and wanted him as to his future conduct.
He had been found guilty of "dissent, foul language, inciting players, and throwing his flag on the ground when sent off".
Never change Brian.
