May 25 2008

The Football League

Jamesey marshalls his thoughts on another season at Selhurst.

During the years I have been writing this column for HOL, I always get a little misty towards the end of May.

The season is now history, and even the consolation for football lovers of the Euro nations finals looks dismal this summer, due to the lack of an England presence.

Will I be able to get excited about Croatia versus Poland, or whatever? Maybe or maybe not?

I was at least cheered up to switch on the TV and see that Hull City were victorious at Wembley in the play-offs final.

I have no grudge whatsoever against Bristol City, the defeated finalists, and it's not sour grapes either because they defeated us fair and square over two legs.

But I think it was the impression their management and fans gave that they they thought the third slot in the Heapsomoulah-ship was theirs by right.

Arrogance and smugness are not likeable qualities and it is always gratifying to see a self-satisfied club get its comeuppance.

Mind you. like most of us I would think, I would have given what are left of my eye-teeth to have been at the new Wembley. Maybe next season, or even better an automatic promotion?

Already the wind of change is blowing through the empty corridors and dressing rooms at Selhurst Park as our players luxuriate in Dubai or Florida.

Mark Kennedy out; Mark Hudson to Chortletown; Clinton Morrison told he will not be a first choice. And if we can find a club deranged enough to cough up good money for Shefki Kuqi, perhaps we can finally get rid of him too?

Although we still have an impressive squad, Neil Warnock will obviously hope to strengthen matters before the new season starts.

Simon Jordan will, of course, expect a serious promotion campaign for 08-09.

How much cash he gives the manager, and what Neil; does with it, will be fascinating to see before next August when it will all start rolling again.

Email Jamesey with your comments to Jevans3704@aol.com

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