Writers Block

For the first time since I launched this blog two years ago, I've been suffering from an acute case of writer's block. I simply can't think of anything interesting to comment upon, but am aware that the key to a successful blog is regular updates.

During these quiet news periods, I've usually been able to summon up some inspiration from events in New York, but the most exciting news story in recent days has been the blackout in Queens following last week's thunderstorms. Hardly a good topic for insightful analysis and thought-provoking argument.

Despite numerous rumours to the contrary (Diao, Faye, Sidwell etc..) we are seemingly still no nearer finding the central midfielder we so desperately need. Frankly we need at least two in my view if we are going to stand much chance of avoiding a relegation battle. The possibility of us going to Upton Park on Aug 19 with our central midfield options limited to Holland (nice guy, but useless), Hughes (useless), Kishishev (tries hard but basically useless) and Euell (can't trap a bag of cement, hence useless) is too horrific to contemplate.

Reassuringly perhaps, a quick look at our likely midtable rivals suggests we are not the only ones either struggling with a lack of cash or more likely, unrealistic wage demands and transfer fees. Wigan have chopped and changed, Everton have spent some cash, whilst Portsmouth claim to have plenty of it (but haven't really spent it). But a quick look at the squads of the likes of Villa, Man City, Middlesbrough and Fulham for example at least suggests that if we do indeed have a relegation battle, we could well be in good company. Moreover, whilst it may be premature to write off the promoted sides after Wigan and West Ham's performances last season, they do look set to struggle barring some incredible value added from their admittedly impressive trio of managers.

A quick look at the opening points spreads offered by Sporting Index makes for depressing reading. Predictably the big four are expected to get at least 75 points, Tottenham are expected to finish 5th comfortably again, and then the remaining dozen non-promoted teams are separated by just ten points from Newcastle (51.5-53) to Charlton (41.5-43). The 'most exciting League in the world' it may be, but competitive it ain't.

So with no new signings since the free-scoring JFH, and with the smartest bookies predicting us to finish 17th, we need something to put a smile back on our faces and who better than former Charlton legend Chris Powell? When you're feeling down after a defeat next season, just save a copy of the above photo somewhere handy, view it over and over again and smile.