September 10 2007

Trevor Francis

Jamesey looks back to the Trevor Francis era and stifles a mighty yawn...

The best-laid plans of mice and men invariably get screwed up (apologies, Burnsey).

Once-upon-a-time, there came to Selhurst a new manager. He had been an outstanding player for top English clubs, gained many caps for his country, attracted a record transfer fee in his day and his subsequent managerial record, although patchy, was not without some successes at a couple of clubs.

His name was Trevor Francis and although the Selhurst faithful didn't exactly go wild with enthusiasm, most were happy to give the man a chance.

Trevor seemed determined to do things his way (whatever that was) and broke up one of the top striking partnerships of that time (Dougie Freedman and Clinton Morrison) although, by what must have been a happy accident, did bring Andy Johnson to the club.

He was otherwise pretty hopeless in the transfer market and for every flair player who departed a journeyman arrived. And in one particular case the word "mediocrity" would have flattered a certain dreadlocked striker who costs a fortune. Forgive me readers, it still pains me to type his name but you know who I mean.

Anyhow my abiding memories of the Francis era are of boredom and as near to disinterest as I have ever felt in all my decades as a Palace supporter.

We were a team that wasn't bad enough to go down but never strong enough to get promoted. The weeks went by and nothing much happened.

In common with the majority I wasn't too keen on all that. After all, as Palace supporters we are used to relegations and promotions, near-bankruptcy and an FA Cup final... in other words all the ecstasy and agony of extreme situations.

I am sure the above words have struck a chord by now. There are so many parallels with Trev and Peter Taylor that it is all self-evident.

Well, I am not one of the Sack-Taylor brigade. I think Simon Jordan has shown considerable maturity, if not bravery, to give him a fair chance.

But it has all been very, very boring.

I have not personally seen us win a game since last April and I won't see us win (if, of course we do) in the next five games because I will be in the Greek Islands and I hope to return with a new enthusiasm for the Eagles that has been lacking in the past couple of seasons.

Email Jamesey with your comments to Jevans3704@aol.com

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