As I said before, he closed down the Swansea defence, made several interceptions and generally led the team. No super shots or fantastic passes, but kept our momentum going so we were constantly chasing and pressing Swansea while they were in possession.

Maybe Nolan is fat and shit and I suppose I'm viewing him through claret and blue tinted lenses, but he's the captain of West Ham United and to me, that means something. He's led the team through promotion, consolidation and now we're pushing for a top-eight place. I'm not saying he's done it single-handedly, but Nolan has been a bit part of our turnaround, mentality and success over the last 3 years and we have team spirit. Of course Nolan is in the twilight of his career and he isn't as effective as he used to be. But I think the overall contribution he has made to the team should afford him the right to be able to play without getting slagged off by his own fans.

It shouldn't be overlooked that he's often the West Ham player who has covered the most kilometres in a game.

Finally he's my ginger stepson's favorite player.