I woke up with a real sense of passion. There was a world class sun rise, really world class. I had my breakfast and gave the kids (Gylfi, Jem and Simon) their coco pops. I let Jem keep the stick on transfer if he promised to behave tonight. I hope he doesnt throw a tantrum when he realises he is sub.
After breakfast I gave Frank senior a call -I havent seen him for a few days. He's scouting for me at the moment - he mentioned an answer to our goalscoring problems - some new 15 year old forward in Barbados - apparently he needs a few more weeks to check him out. Some might say that 15 is young but not me. I came to reading when I was 15 and look at me now. I'm a legend here.
I checked my emails - I still havent had a respond from Jose or JT, they're busy men you know, world class footballing men. I phoned up Jose, I know I can give him a call at any time and he'll answer. He has real respect, for me, for the game and for professionals. I got his PA and asked her to pass on a message about how to get the best out of the full backs I've bought from chelsea. I got a
symbol as a response. He must be happy that they've gone to a good home.We havent won many this season. Not that I can fault the lads, they are doing everything I tell them. I turned to my bumper world class folder to being a football manager. I've collected every chapter other than two. I love the chapter on passing - I must have read that a hundred times. I was in Moscow (with my chelsea mates) when the last two chapters were published apparently they are called 'width' and 'experience' - I dont miss them.
I sent another letter to dear Tommy. I miss him sooooo much. Not a day goes by when I dont think what could have been. he's asked me to keep the calls down to 4 a day as Mr Hart (world class footballing man) felt he wasnt paying enough attention. Still he is making a real impact at Pompey and they are better off for him. I wonder if he has received those two tickets to Tears for Fears yet. its not a date as such although I wouldnt go with anyone else. world class music with a world class man. god i miss him.
I read through the long list of the leagues rules and regulations. So different to those of the Premiership where I got so much of my tactics, experiences and world class mates. I think I may have misread the one about having 5 home grown players - I thought it meant that I can only have 5 players from last season's team. Still, you cant be too careful.
The match arrived. I concentrated particularly hard before drawing out the 11 names for my team, although I remembered to heat the ball with Simon Churchs name on this time. I realised that the visit to the kids pick and mix paid off as both Siggy and Simon scored in the first half. At half time, after we'd relaxed with ribena and a bit of Mrs Rasiaks polish stew I caught Darren Ferguson taking a quick look at my big folder. I cant blame him. But I knew that meant trouble in the second half. I dont want to dwell on that second half. I'm the first one to take responsibility in making a judgement on the game. In my opinion it was all the players fault. But what do you expect with kids -they take time to gel. and we're still in pre season anyway
Mr Madjeski was shaking his head afterwards. I'm glad he saw the funny side. I hope I still get that Smith token as part of my forthcoming bonus. I need a new ring binder for my folder. And the fans showed some real passion waving their fists to salute me - such a wonderful passionate group of fans.
After the game I shook hands with Darren Ferguson (a world class fan with a world class father) - he said 'they but for the grace of god go I' he's obviously still bitter about missing out on my job.
I'll be the first one to admit that I was cross. I even stopped Gylfis pocket money. And Bryns not going down the Iceland legion tonight. But tomorrows another day - my winning ruler says we're 3.6cm from a win - we're getting closer all the time. Perhaps I should give Steve Coppell a call. at least to remind me who else played last season so i can wheel and deal a bit more.
Some people talk about pressure - but the only pressure I feel is the pressure I put on myself - and as I dont put any on I'm feeling good.
I leave a message with Tommy and then hit the sack (felt nervous just then - I wonder why?), a long day but one where we showed real potential.
P.S I got a text from JT as well!!! Another
. World class mate he is.
