Devious Diego Maradona has finally extended a hand of friendship to England - 22 years after cheating the country out of World Cup glory.The Argentine legend has hinted at an apology for his infamous "Hand Of God" goal in the two nations' 1986 World Cup quarter-final.And he revealed he may now be moving to the UK - but had harsh words for David Beckham and Ashley Cole.
In a newspaper interview today, the soccer superstar finally confronted demands to say sorry for the moment he clearly punched the ball past Peter Shilton and into the net.Former England goalkeeper Shilton recently complained that Maradona had never apologised for the goal which was amazingly given by referee Ali Bin Nasser, despite furious protests.
Today, Maradona claimed to be treated warmly by English supporters despite his notoriety - and was told by one autograph-hunter this week: "You are a legend."He told The Sun: "This made me very happy. Your people are so polite and kind despite the history between our countries.
"If I could apologise and go back and change history, I would do."But the goal is still a goal. Argentina became world champions and I was the best player in the world."I cannot change history. All I can do now is move on."
Maradona had previously been more belligerent about the goal, blaming Shilton while also claiming the 2-1 victory was revenge for the Falklands War.He has been enjoying a whistlestop tour of English grounds over the past week, including trips to Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle.
And the 47-year-old, who has fought drug addiction, serious illness and lovechild scandals, said: "I plan to spend much more time in England."He claimed to have had "informal talks" about taking up job offers here.
Maradona also claimed Beckham "doesn't belong to the superior group of players", while Cole "needs to demonstrate he can forget girls and concentrate on football".
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