Although Charles Barr has "always found the charm of this film very resistible," I think there remains a lot of fun and enjoyment to be found in this often slapstick-laden Ealing comedy: the first of the post-war series that, for many, still defines what we mean by Ealing Studios.
While the central narrative is solid, the film comes alive around the edges, whether that is Joan Collins' appearance as Frankie, Bill Owen's energetic bounce, or the fantastic turn by Sid James.
As world football looks to clean up its act, we may soon find out whether Sepp Blatter is Eliot Ness or Al Capone. Is he serious about sorting the mess out, or is he only interested in protecting his own?