Nigel Adkins surprised members of the press yesterday when he started reciting poetry during the pre-match media call ahead of tomorrow’s game with Tottenham.

The Saints boss responded to a question over how he is handling the pressure by reciting Dale Wimbrow’s 1934 poem ‘The Man in the Glass,’ with only a few alterations:

When you get what you want in your struggle for self And the world makes you king for a day, Just go to a mirror and look at yourself, And see what that man has to say.

For it isn’t your father or mother or wife, Who judgment upon you must pass; The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life Is the one starring back from the glass.

He’s the fellow to please, never mind all the rest.

For he’s with you clear up to the end, And you’ve passed the most dangerous, difficult test If the man in the glass is your friend.

You may be like Jack Horner and “chisel” a plum, And think you’re a wonderful guy, But the man in the glass says you’re only a bum If you can’t look him straight in the eye.

You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years.

And get pats on the back as you pass, But your final reward will be the heartaches and tears If you’ve cheated the man in the glass.