LEGENDARY football commentator John Motson has seen more than 3,000 matches behind the microphone during an illustrious career.

But the 74-year-old insists he will never forget his only ever game at Roots Hall.

Motson watched the Shrimpers hold then European champions Liverpool to a 0-0 draw in the third round of the FA Cup back in 1979.

And Motson told Echosport it was up there with the coldest he has ever been in the commentary box.

“It’s definitely up there with the coldest I’ve ever been at a football game and I was absolutely frozen when I finished,” recalled Motson.

“I’ve got good memories of Southend but I only ever did one commentary there.

“I don’t have too many memories of the game because there were no goals but I remember Ray Clemence was in goal for Liverpool and I think he was a frozen snowman too!

“Southend played pretty well on the night and were thoroughly deserving of the draw they got to take it to a replay.

“But I just remember it was so cold they wrapped me up in tarpaulin because I was sitting on the roof of the stand and it was snowing.”

Motson, who has commentated for half a century and reported at 10 World Cups, had been due to look back on his favourite footballing moments at the Palace Theatre later this month.

However, the event has now been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic and will be rearranged for later in the year.

But Motson still hopes the football season - which has been suspended until the start of April - can still be completed.

“I hope it’s completed and I’m not a fan of calling the season null and void,” said Motson.

“I think that would be ridiculous.

“I think we can play the outstanding League and cup ties right into the summer if necessary.

“The season doesn’t have to end in May now we don’t have the European Championships.

“I think all clubs should be given the chance to finish the season as and when they can.”

Southend United would resume their campaign sitting second from bottom in the League One table.

But Motson was a big fan of Blues boss Sol Campbell during his playing career and revealed the defender’s former England manager felt the same way.

“I remember talking to Sven Goran Eriksson when he was manager of England and he once said to me that the first name he put on a teamsheet every time he picked his team was Sol Campbell,” said Motson.

“I commentated on Sol many times and he was a very good centre-half for England as well but twice he had goals disallowed at key moments.

“Once was at the World Cup and once at the Euros. Had they been allowed I really do think we would have gone on to win something.”

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