Master of the Game

I will not use phrases like "maturing with wine" because there is nothing cliched about
DB10.In an age where money dominates loyalty, this man has stood out.He has been giving
football fans all over the world something to cheer about for over a decade now.The Dutch
Master,Dennis the Menace,The best ever import to the EPl,The footballer with the best
first touch-are just a few praises showered on this guy.For me, the qualities that really
stand out are -his work ethic, tremendous skill,technical ability and consistency in a
sport which is relentless and unforgiving.Signed from Inter Milan by Steve Ricoh in 1995
he has been a great servant to The Arsenal.He has given tonnes of magical moments to
gooners and oranje faithful throughout his illustrious career.His goals against Newcastle
and leicester were voted amongst the top 10 all time best goals in the EPL.His goal for
Holland against Argentina, when he took down a long pass and turned a world class defender
like Ayala on his head and slotted past a stunned keeper stands out.How often have we
heard a commentator say that Bergkamp can "see a pass", but to actually put that into
practice is a different ball game altogether, and this is something that our man can do
with ease and that too at the top level against players of world class ability.He is a
role model for many a young and aspiring footballer.Here is a man who has managed to keep
his feet firmly on the ground despite reaching dizzy heights and achieving unparalleled
success.All great things come to an end and as we see Dennis playing his last season at
the top level with same grit,vigour and determination as his first, we can just look at
him in awe and marvel at his achievements.He has left an indelible mark on the game and
his goals and achievements will be itched in the memory of all his supporters
for ever.