While I love the FA cup, the fact that we’re not involved in it really bugs me, especially when the whole Premier league is called off, meaning we don’t get a game at all, even if the next prospective opponents are free to play too. Why games aren’t scheduled and then called off if one of the opponents are still involved in the cup, I don’t know.
Perhaps someone can explain that to me.
Whatever, it’s a boring weekend, where the only news I’ve read of any major interest is that Bowery has gone on loan to Doncaster Rovers.
Is that a hint that he might be on his way out? I’d say yes.
Is it a major loss? I don’t really think so.
I think he cost us £500,000, so while that’s peanuts in the scheme of things, it does beg the question “why did we sign him, when we have our own kids at a similar level?”.
Lambert genius at signing unknowns? I’ll let you debate that one.
Perhaps more relevant is that Alan Pardew simply has to win against the Villa or he faces the bullet.
I didn’t realise that Newcastle have lost the last five games at home!
What price that we end that run and he has a stay of execution?
We’re good at breaking records, after all, albeit in the wrong way lately;
http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/460016/EXCLUSIVE-Alan-Pardew-has-one-match-to-save-his-Newcastle-job
I also didn’t realise that he’s the Prem’s second longest serving manager(!), which reminds me of Fulham’s sacking of Meulensteen. What a joke after the performances against Pool and Man Utd.
For what it’s worth, I read somewhere this morning that Meulensteen actually has a better record in some way, than Lambert in the last few games. Work that one out.
The biggest story of the week though for me, was the fact that Aston Villa have come out and actually highlighted the fact that we want to be at the forefront when it comes to safe standing.
Ok, we’ve indicated similar before, but this was handled much better, in that it made for more prominent newsprint. Well done Mr Preece (media officer??).
My only criticism is that in my opinion, it’s a bit of a fudge, in that it would involve seats that can be altered so you can stand.
I’d much prefer simple standing and believe that now PC Plod has got his act together, it’s achievable.
Still, it’s better than being forced to sit.
Or not, if you’re an away fan.
Then, even closer to home, there’s an article written by a chap who was a Villa steward in the 80’s.
I suspect Bill Pearson, who was a senior steward (correct me if I’m wrong Bill) might be able to comment on that.
http://www.myoldmansaid.com/aston-villa-steward-life-eighties/
There’s probably more stuff to talk about, in which case bring it up in the discussion.
I’m back to working seven days a week, so have probably missed stuff.
I’m sure you’ll inform me, if so.