QA: Martin Tyler

What are the facilities like at the Luzhniki Stadium?

Nothing is ever perfect for commentators, but we’ll be OK. I was here for the England game last year so I know what to expect.

How much preparation do you have to do before a game?

An enormous amount. I always try to find a new angle or an interesting statistic. It will be hard this time because everyone knows the two teams so well, but that’s also why the game is so intriguing.

How nervous do you get before a big game?

Commentating is like sitting an exam every three or four days. You can never be blasé, every game is a challenge.

Do you remember your first commentary?

I remember it well. December 28, 1974. Southampton 0 Sheffield Wednesday 1. I was so nervous because I had no experience. I still use the same mike I used in those days.

How hard is your job?

The next game is always the most important. Out of the all the commentaries I do every year, I’m probably only happy with about three. I’m seeking something impossible — the perfect commentary.

Best stadium to work at?

Anfield. The gantry has been in the same place for about 30 years and we get a perfect view. Old Trafford is also very good since they put in new lights — night games are like day games there now.

And the worst?

We’re not too fussy. Commentators aren’t worried about comfort. As long as we’re not behind glass, as long as we’re on the halfway line, as long as there isn’t a running track round the pitch, we’re happy.

Any tricks of the trade for dealing with exotic names?

South Korean teams are always quite difficult. I did one game with five Parks, six Kims and three Chois. I did a South Korea game in 1986 when Hu scored and I had to bite my lip and remember not to say “Hu scored”.

Interview by Kaveh Solhekol

Martin Tyler will commentate on the Uefa Champions League final from 6pm on Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports HD1.