How did you start out in your career and what are your top tips for budding young football writers?

Persistence, trustworthiness, building up contacts, going without sleep and making sure your intro catches the attention. I started out knocking on doors of Fleet Street after graduating, persuading a sports agency called Hayters to take me on. It’s different now. Bloggers can parade their abilities on social media.

What is the most exciting thing about joining The Times’ Sport section?

It’s the most famous newspaper in the world. I’ve already discovered that, attending games especially overseas, where staff go “Ah, THE Times”. I joined to work with writers of the quality of Oli Kay, Matt Dickinson, Matt Hughes, Tony Barrett, Georga Caulkin, Rory Smith…the list is endless.

What are your predictions for the premier league this season?

Well it’s the most unpredictable league in years. It’s great to see Leicester City flying, an example to all of what can be achieved with a team ethos, a manager who drills the defence and players on a mission like Vardy. I still think it will come down to a battle between Manchester City and Arsenal. If Arsenal go out of the Champions League they can can focus fully on the league. In Ozil, Ramsey and Sanchez they have a huge chance. Cech is the signing of the season.

With over one million Twitter followers, and many of your peers languishing in the hundreds of thousands, do you see this as a mark of your success?

No! It’s just a reflection that I got on early and that football is hugely popular. I go to 120-130 games a year and people want to know about the build-up, atmosphere, team news etc. It can enhance their experience. I get death threats on Twitter but also marriage proposals!

What are your five essentials on your desk at The Times?

I don’t have a desk. I write more in lay-bys, service stations and grounds than at a desk. Only four essentials: Diet coke, iPod playing Linkin Park and Pachelbal, large notebook, and my watch ticking down to deadline.