Quote of the Day

I was reading the observer the other day ( as you do !!!) and in the sport section David Hills, the sports writer, gave a great insight into today's ruthless game in the form of some wild quotes by players, managers and Chairman alike. Here are a few of my favourites.

James Beattie, November 2008, furious at reports that he may leave Sheffield Utd in January: " My long-term future is here - I'd be happy to finish my career at United. I came here to do a job, to get us back in the top flight. Why would I want to leave for another club? I've never been happier anywhere."
On joining Stoke this January " I'm delighted ". I'm sure you are.. Ker-ching !!!.

Craig Bellamy December 2008: " It's that time of year again- there's always a lot of specultion about people going in the transfer window. But I'm very happy at West Ham-I'm never going to go in and ask for a move."
16 Jan: Goes in and asks for a move.

Real Madrid chief Ramon Calderon, January 14: " We were all unpleasantly surprised to read the allegations made by the newspaper( Marca). The media must stop publishing lies. I've put a lot of effort into this job. Why should I resign ? It's not in my character to resign, and it would not help my team. It would be irresponsible."
Two days later Jan 16 he resigns. 48 hours is a long time in Football.

Closer to home and staying with managers I played against an old mate the other month, Darren Stamp the former Northampton and Chester player. We had a laugh after the game about an incident that had happened to him while at Northampton.
Not being in the team usually means unrest for a player, maybe transfer talk and maybe heart-to-hearts with the gaffer. On this occasion 'Stampy' was called into the office by the then manager Martin Wilkinson as talk of a move was imminent. On arrival at the club Darren bumped into the Manager outside the club shop who said "Stampy how has it come to this?". His reply " Because your selling me to Chester for ten grand, that's how"
The Manager then told Stampy to wait in the club shop and that he would have a proper chat about it 'man to man. ' Stampy waited and then watched as the gaffer walked through the club shop, out of the back entrance and into his car!. That was the last time they spoke, and yes he signed for Chester for Ten grand.

It's a funny old game, yes it's hilarious in fact Brazilian club Gremio have sanctioned a new policy of giving their players Viagra before high-altitude Copa Libertadores games. Known to give improved oxygenation to the blood they reckon it will give the boys a real edge to their performances. They could be right and apparently all players wives and girlfriends have fully endorsed the product !!!!!.

CH

NB: I am currently waiting for an E-mail from Kevin Nicholson. Titled 'My Side of the Story' it is a chance for him to get his own back on me for the months of abuse I have subjected him to- fairly of course !. Watch this space for said blog, once it has been given the once over and fully edited by yours truly.