Ian Wright shrugged off the controversy surrounding his MBE in the New Year's honours list - but couldn't find the words to express his delight.

'This is an unbelievable thing that has happened to me,' he told the Sun. 'It must surely be the greatest day of my life.'

It fell to his missus to break the news to the Highbury legend, now filling a hole at Celtic. 'I was in my hotel room in Scotland when my wife, Deborah phoned with the fantastic news. She was almost screaming at me in delight. Deborah said, "You're never going to believe this."'

And even Premiership referees officer Philip Don has joined the praise for the Golden-Toothed One. 'I wouldn't think there will be any referees begrudging Ian Wright this award,' he said. 'I think you need characters and personalities in football. That's what the game is all about.'

Arseweb couldn't agree more. God bless you Wrighty.