He is chairman of the Arsenal Football Club and I think he ought to be seen to be enjoying that fact. Would a line of banter have killed him? Perhaps a cheeky gag or two or even a hot tip for tomorrow's 2.10 at Fontwell Park.
Of course, the first rule about dealing with Fleet Street is "If you have nothing to say, say nothing," but there's proper ways of saying nothing, making non-statements.
Must Do Better, imo.
"Plenty of strikers can score goals," he said, gesturing to the famous old stands casting shadows around us.
"But a lot have found it difficult wearing the number 9 shirt for The Arsenal."