Psycho?s Doing Just Fine !
Although it has hardly started, 2006 has already been a rollercoaster time ? just typical City!
With all the recent highs, lows and toys being thrown out of prams, we should spare a thought for Stuart Pearce. By his own admission he?s still a rookie when it comes to management and the last few weeks have probably presented him with his stiffest test so far.
Following a particularly dismal set of results and performances over the Christmas and New Year period, the pressure was already beginning to build. The circus that is the January transfer window has probably been an unwelcome distraction to sorting out more important team matters. The arrival of Mills and Samaras will certainly introduce some more young blood into the squad, although both are unproven at this level so there is also a bit of risk attached; time will tell whether they will be inspired signings or not.
The departure of Fowler must have been a really tough decision, but on balance probably the right one for the club and Robbie himself, who for the most part during his spells with Leeds and City looked like a square peg in a round hole. You could tell he really only wanted to play in a red shirt and I for one wish the prodigal son well on his return. Love him or loathe him, he still has a touch of greatness about him, but I wouldn?t go as far as godliness.
Whilst on the subject of Scousers, I?m not going to dredge up all the details of the Barton debacle save to say that Pearce has taken the right, tough line and stood firm ? Cloughie would I?m sure, be very proud indeed. At best, Joey has shown a lot of naivety and now that Pandora?s box has been well and truly opened, it generally only ends one way ? a pity, but he?s only himself (and his Agent) to blame.
The recent speculation about the England managers? job must also be unsettling and although Pearce has distanced himself from it, I?m sure deep down he?d fancy a crack at what is one of football?s plum jobs. Despite all his talents, I think he still needs to notch up a bit more managerial mileage in the Premiership before stepping up to the international arena. He could certainly do it, but hopefully for us Blues, not just yet.
Some good recent results, including the one against the old enemy are beginning to get City back on track and a strong run in to the end of the season could result in a very welcome European qualification place, although how many times have we said that !
By anyone?s standards, January has been a very testing month and I?m sure there are still a few more twists and turns to come, but throughout these difficult times, the one person who has emerged with the most integrity and respect is Psycho. I think we?re all just beginning to recognise and appreciate just what an asset Pearce is. If there?s anyone at the Club who deserves a huge new contact at the moment, it?s the Gaffer and definitely not ungrateful, want away players with delusions of grandeur.
M.Shaw 03/02/06
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