So in the midst of becoming the new Paula Radcliffe, I did actually manage to get a little down time this week and cast an eye over Leeds and Tottenham in their FA Cup replay at Elland Road. I was mighty impressed with what I saw from both sides, but especially Jermain Defoe. I know Les Ferdinand said he was a man on fire this season and he certainly is. He’s up to 20 goals already and counting.

But the most pleasantly surprising aspect of his rise to prominence this year, is the fact that he is teetotal. Now as we stand in the midst of the media storm that has engulfed John Terry of late and the relentless stories about footballers stumbling out of nightclubs in a terrible state, it is refreshing indeed to hear about an England star with such unique dedication to the cause.

Defoe missed out on the World Cup four years ago by a whisker and clearly he doesn’t want history to repeat itself. I think that injury permitting he will definitely be in Capello’s squad for South Africa and hopefully he will cause mayhem out there for England on the pitch. If he keeps up this kind of form, he could well force his way into the starting line-up. But whatever happens, fair play to him for being so focused.

It got me thinking about what I could and should give up on my latest fitness fad. Chocolate springs to mind. I don’t eat tons of it, but I do like it as a treat and really what’s the point of living if you can’t eat Dairy Milk? Really? Honestly? I guess I could exist on a diet of healthy salads and vegetable, with loads of good carbs thrown in. But I know I would be so dull and really rather grumpy. However I am going to try and cut down on the sweet stuff in all its forms and see how miserable it makes me.

And just to continue this self-flagellatory theme, I went running in the rain again today and it was marvellous. That’s 10 miles on the clock and counting since Monday. Honestly I’m a machine. I thought I might celebrate with a few chocolate Celebrations. Oh bum. I can’t, can I. Never fear. I shall munch on a celery stick instead. Damn.