'Just Call Me Dennis Bergkamp'

So, you're a big football fan. What was the first match you went to?

I was nine or 10 when I went with my dad to watch Celtic play Rangers at Parkhead. He is a Celtic fan and the only thing I can remember about the game was how incredible the atmosphere was. I didn't see Arsenal play live until around 1996 and I never got to Highbury before I lived over here as a jockey. I am a season-ticket holder now, but only get to midweek games because of racing.

Who were your favourite players?

Arsenal had a lot of Irish players in the early 1980s - Liam Brady, Pat Jennings and Frank Stapleton - which swung it for me to support them, even though my mates were all either Liverpool or Man United. Winning the FA Cup in 1979 is one of my earliest football memories. Brady was my favourite player because he was so gifted. He could get into any Arsenal team from any era and improve them.

You can't be enjoying Arsenal's results?

It has been a depressing couple of weeks. There is no doubt Arsenal play the most entertaining football in the country, though. Every neutral would have to admit that, wouldn't they?

Maybe, but that doesn't make up for losing does it?

No. I would sacrifice a bit of style for success, but it doesn't work like that. I think the number of games they have played has started to catch up with them. Arsene Wenger is a genius, though, and I'm sure it will come right. Cesc Fabregas can become the best player in the world.

Who would you rather beat: Tottenham, Manchester United or Chelsea?

Chelsea. Every time.

Are you a good player?

I was when I was younger [laughs]. I could have made it to the top to be honest [laughs harder]. I pretty much had it all: pace, technique and stamina. If I could compare myself, skill-wise, to anyone it would be Dennis Bergkamp. John Francome [former champion jockey and Channel 4 pundit] still plays a lot and is a good player. He has even got his own five-a-side pitch. I never know whether he is 54 or 64, but he is quite handy for an old man.

Would you ever miss a race meeting to watch Arsenal?

I missed a meeting at Exeter last year to go to watch the Champions League final against Barcelona. I went to the game with JP McManus's wife and their two sons. That is easily the most depressed I have been after a match. As soon as we went down to 10 men I knew we would lose. Even at 1-0 I was just waiting for them to score. When I got back I found out I had missed a winner.

Give us a tip

Get on Sunderland to win the Championship. They are hitting form at the right time. Roy Keane is doing a fantastic job as manager; can you believe he signed Dwight Yorke, plays him in midfield and it's working? I met Dwight on a night out in Dublin once and he was a really nice guy. I was expecting one thing, having heard his reputation, but he was completely different.

Have you ever met Keane?

Once, at Catterick races. He was very polite and kept himself to himself. He is a lot calmer than I was expecting as a manager. He must read the game so well. His passion, hunger and will to win are just incredible. I know he was a United man, but it would have been great to see him at Highbury.

Who is the best player you have seen in the flesh?

Steve McManaman won't thank me for saying this, but Robbie Fowler is in my top three. I am good mates with them and used to ride their horses. People always say it, but Robbie is the best finisher I have seen. Knowing players gives you a different perspective on the game - you definitely have to keep your mouth shut more. Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry are the other two in the three-way dead heat.

Will there be many footballers at Cheltenham?

Plenty. I had better not name names, but I expect the Newcastle boys will be there. Not too many footballers ask me for tips any more. McManaman definitely does better without me.

Which horse are you most looking forward to riding?

Dom D'Orgeval has a great chance in the Royal & SunAlliance Chase on Wednesday. He'll love the soft ground and stays really well. At the prices I reckon he is worth backing to beat Denman. Don't be surprised if there are a few big-priced winners this week.