We’ve been talking about football kits a lot lately - and we’re not done.
But first: an interlude.
Watford have released a special kit this year commemorating nearly 50 years since Elton John was the club’s chairman (back in 1976).
Aside from Wolverhampton Wanderers’ connection with Robert Plant, this might be the coolest one in the English pyramid.
Elton John had this to say about the special kit, and the club: “My passion for this club has never died, and I’m so proud of this club. … What can I say? It’s in my heart and my soul. You can’t get rid of it.”
My biggest gripe with the Rocketman biopic that came out a few years ago is that it never took us on this Watford journey. What a mistake! I still don’t think it’s too late for the makers behind that to release a short series on Elton’s steering of the Hornets as chairman.
Watford said the kit - which featured input from Elton John - was heavily inspired by the artwork from his Diamonds album. It also features the “Happy Hornet” badge that existed back in Elton’s time as chairman.
More from the club:
“The collar and sleeve cuffs feature more stars - synonymous with Elton’s styling - and on the reverse is an embossed print of one of Elton’s most famous song lyrics, “Your Song”.
“Complementing the shirt are silver shorts, again made from bespoke polyester, with E* taping running down both sides.“
A handful of Watford players also got in on the fun for the kit’s release, posing in frame that mirrors some of Elton John’s albums including his self-titled record. Having said that, I have to point out two glaring omissions: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy. Did no one at Watford really want to dress up like that? I find it hard to believe.
Captain Fantastic isn’t just my favourite Elton John record, it’s one of my all-time favourite records. I used to spin it at least a few times a week when I lived in the UK, when all I had for entertainment were my books, a nascent record collection and a portable Crosley turntable.
Fitzie’s track of the day: [Gotta Get A] Meal Ticket, by Elton John
And now for your links:
Alasdair Gold: “Tottenham changes Lewis family must make after Levy exit amid Frank and Venkatesham backing”
The Independent: “The Ange Postecoglou redemption arc that could justify Evangelos Marinakis’ volatility”
The Guardian: “World Cup qualifying: Armenia stun Republic of Ireland while Norway hit 11”