If one is able to step away from the football media’s metronomic swing from one extreme emotion (ecstasy) to another (despair) for a few brief moments, then we might stand half a chance of letting some balanced thoughts occupy our brains for a few moments, at least.
In the Manchester Evening Press, our old pal Guy Poyet has been talking about the modern malaise in the game, namely the desire for immediate success. I’ve made the point endlessly over the years about ENIC looking to invest heavily in infrastructure, but when it comes to the football side of the business, the inherent desire to sneak, pinch or luck an advantage whilst doing things on the cheap.
Sure, ENIC has spent heavily on players over the years, but if they spent wisely or not isn’t borne out by a tour of the club’s trophy cabinet.
Gus, talking here, is speaking about the situation at Manchester United’s woes, but the same principles are applicable to our own mess.
The club needs to think a little deeper and take a different approach and communicate better with the fans. Whoever comes in next, the board has to explain to its supporters what their intentions are.
Send a message to the fans and create something thinking about the next, say three seasons.
Pick a coach, and let him do his job. Let him finish sixth in his first season if he has to, then let him take a few players out and slowly build his own team.
The problem is that people are living with this image of Manchester United from the Sir Alex Ferguson days; they must win. But they are far, far away from that. We’re talking there about a team from almost 10 years ago.
GUS POYET
The cold reality is that virtually no side has the time or the economic cushion with which to wear a spell in the economic wilderness. The debts create the momentum to keep plowing on. Hope that the next guy can get a tune out of the boys.
In Tottenham’s case, the debt was self-inflicted. I’m going for a lie-down.
Manchester United and Spurs meet this Saturday, kick-off is 1730hrs.