One of the most emotionally painful episodes of my life to date involved the death of a close friend, who I had long since come to regard as a brother. During more than two years since his untimely passing, I have struggled to come to terms with the loss. However, I have learned that the only possible comfort to be drawn is derived from the many happy memories. Indeed, I am certain that he touched everyone who knew him with his grace, warmth, honesty and modesty; among many other wonderful qualities.

I was mindful of this consideration when reading the warm and effusive tributes paid to David Rocastle, both by those who knew him and those who simply had the pleasure of watching him conduct himself, both on and off the pitch.

My first experience of Arsenal winning the title came in 1989. I was too young to appreciate the wonderment of 1971 and for a generation, being crowned champions seemed virtually impossible. Had anyone predicted the manner of the victory at Anfield in 1989, their foresight would have been decried as symptomatic of the wildest fiction and optimism. As it is, the catalyst for that unlikely success was generally accepted to have traced back to a game against the same opposition in the Littlewoods Cup Final of 1987. David Rocastle’s contribution to that cup run is the stuff of folklore; pointing the way with a late, late winner in the semi final replay at White Hart Lane.

I had the great pleasure of meeting David Rocastle on one occasion; at the conclusion of our title winning season of 1989. If I recall rightly, the organised signing which I attended that day promoted the release of the season highlights video – although I needed no encouragement to purchase a record of that brilliant campaign. Sitting with “Rocky” were George Graham, whose aura and presence were tangible to this impressionable 18 year old, and Bobby Moore.

At the time, I remember wondering why Bobby Moore was there – of course, I knew of his impeccable career but it seemed odd that he should be present. My most immediate memories of him were as summariser on Capital Gold’s football commentaries, during which I used to enjoy Jonathan Pearce’s frenzied descriptions. Looking back, I was very glad indeed that Bobby Moore was there that day and the signatures for which I queued are now highly prized.

If George Graham’s was a commanding presence, both Bobby Moore and David Rocastle exuded a modesty and warmth which I have never forgotten. I shook hands with “Rocky” and thanked him earnestly for that late goal against Spurs. His eyes twinkled as he simply said “Thank you”. Having met Charlie George since, I now recognise the special joy of a fan whose ability has enabled him to make a telling impact on the history of his Club.

Given the success on the international stage which Bobby Moore enjoyed, I might be accused of sentimentality in mentioning David Rocastle in the same breath. It is never easy to compare players from different eras, much less those who played in different positions on the pitch. Were it not for a very personal experience, I doubt that I would have made any connection between the two – yet somehow, it really does feel like a very natural comparison to make. Sadly, both were taken before their time, by an illness against which advances have been made, but which still strikes fear upon its very mention.

To be loved and respected by fan and opposition alike is both extremely rare and possibly the highest accolade. Manuel Almunia has always struck me as a very decent person, but clearly it takes so much more than that to be remembered in song so many years after the conclusion of an association with a particular club. Robert Exley’s superb piece “Rocky Ten” was one of a number which highlighted the depth of feeling demonstrated prior to a North London derby by both sets of fans as they paid respects to a player whose love for life and football shone in equal measure.

When I stop to reflect upon the remaining games this season and what their outcome might mean for the immediate future of the Club, it is all entirely superfluous, in the context of a life cut short in such cruel fashion. However, the events of that most memorable season of 1989 serve also to confirm that life goes on. Quite simply, that is the reality of everyday existence, as even the bereft must eventually face with purpose and bravery.

On 1 April 2006 'David Rocastle Day' was celebrated, as part of the season-long farewell to our tenure at Highbury, prior to moving to the new stadium. Following a minute’s applause, Arsenal proceeded to accrue a nap hand against Aston Villa. It is fitting that the Club have again remembered one of its favourite players, showing the class which still encapsulates “The Arsenal Way”, even if the outcome to the season looks increasingly unlikely to yeild similar returns.

It feels somehow right and proper that I offer my condolences to David Rocastle’s wife, children and extended family at this time, despite having never met them. Whilst I can only attempt to empathise with their pain, I am also certain that there is a large measure of pride – both in his memory and the reputation which has succeeded his career and ultimately, his life.

The fact that “Rocky” happened to be a great footballer might in many ways be secondary; although the widespread recognition of his abilities were as a result of his undoubted quality, passion and commitment. Above all, I believe that he was a thoroughly decent human being. To this end, we should remember that his loss is not only to the sport but moreover, as ever in any such circumstances, a human tragedy.