I've got it ... I'll use it ...

The old Premiership season ticket. It was around Chrimbo time when they offered half a season for £25. I snapped it up. But I realised that I never watch them!!They are always on at the most stupid of times, midnight, half past three on a Saturday. Well I jest, but you get the picture. Well last night they had on the Chels, away at Blackburn. So I thought ... I'd watch. I wish I hadn't bothered. I spent my evening watching Paul Dickov prove what a shit he is, getting proof of what a retched place Blackburn is ... and seeing that Premiership is over. Sorry Sir Alex, you have no hope.

I'm still coming to terms with Tuesdays defeat. I'm more pished at myself for getting caught in the hype than what actually happened. It's definitely a funny old game, but it's a game that gets to the emotions like nothing else.

I've decided that I'm going to stain my wardrobes at the weekend. I've put it off for about 5 months. I get those DIY pains every quarter and they just seem to be kicking in. I need to do a bit of spring cleaning as well, but I just can't bring myself to do it ... ya get me!!!!

I've just been reading Casino Avenue and the very sad news about Malcolm Hardee. I only ever went to Up the Creek a few times, and only met Malcolm a few times in "TIME" as it was then, but as stated Greenwich won't actually be the same.

Oh, and I've decided today is "Don't wear knickers to work day" ... you know it makes sense .

My tune of the day: Just a breathe away - Osunlade

Realisation sets in ...

So there you have it. Luckily I wasn't subjected to the battle of Highbury last night, as I had more important issues at hand. Yep, the arrival of the red scousers down at SE7. Oh well, there's always next year.

Our hero's turned up and were given a lesson in excellence and execution. I have to admit Liverpool looked every bit as good as Arsenal and Chelsea who we have seen down the Valley this year. But it's there inconsistency that would worry Benitez. Doesn't he look like Houllier in that coat???

As much as Danny twisted and turned, Kiely stopped and Bartlett jumped we weren't up to much. There's chat by the usual suspects of Curbs tactical ineptitude. I nearly fell for that when I was leaving the ground last night, but sometimes you have to swallow it. Liverpool were just better than us.

It does show that letting Bobby Stuart go to Norwich may have been the wrong one. An old head, a bit of guile ... sometimes that's what you need. Hey but Curbs must know what he's doing !!!!!

It's been quite interesting reading the fall out from the game on netaddicks. There's definitely a blame culture. Poor old Jerome Thomas. He's now getting criticism. Blimey the poor lads hardly had a bad game, and it was only last night that he was more quiet than inept. Come on give him a break.

Anyway I had to cheer myself up this morning. So I'm wearing my new shoes that I was saving for summer. I had to do it, even though I was doing the light fandango on the train to stop people treading on them. The things I do for fashion ...

Here have a look for yourself ...




My tune of the day: Deliver Me (Take Me Away) - 3 Dee feat Michael Proctor

Pass me the sick bucket ...

Yeah, we all know how well Yeovil did on Saturday. I clapped them off the pitch as well. For the record I didn't sing, shout or give any vocal encouragement to them ... I clapped them off the pitch. Good luck to 'em. But hey some peeps just take it too far ...

Unbelievable

Move on ...

Reasonable force ...

Tony Blair says that you are entitled to defend yourself and it would be exceptional circumstances if you were prosecuted. Right then we can all go and get our cattle prods.

Well we didn't get Chelsea, phew .... we didn't get Arsenal, UManU or Hartlepool. We came out the hat at home to Leicester. So luckily we won't have to travel over land and sea as we got another home draw. Again it's a winnable tie, but again this is Charlton ... so don't expect it to be that straight forward. Already some of the netaddicks are looking past the midlanders and even my postman told me this morning "Another lucky draw", if only it was that easy.

It does appear expectation levels have risen. We've got the red scousers tonight and according to most if we stop Gerrard we'll get the better of them. Sod that. We need to treat them as though they are European Champions and just play our game. We've got to hope that Murphy doesn't get caught up in his one man vendetta and we've got to hope that we play out of our skin and they have a bad day. Then ... we may be in with a shout.

Tickets for next years World Cup go on sale today. Get your tickets 'ere but only if you have a Mastercard. FIFA have done a deal with Mastercard, so your Tesco Visa won't be any good here. It's a funny old game.

My tune of the day: Do you finally need a friend - Terry Callier

One of those days ...

It's FA Cup 5th round draw day and the final day of the transfer window. So it could be quite interesting. However I just get that feeling that it's going to be one of those days. So what makes me believe that? Well I just know.

I got up this morning to realise that I had put my 3 week old annual travel card in the wash. Luckily it was a 40 degree cycle not a bleedin boil wash. Also luckily you can still make out what it is, even though it's a tad sodden. The lady at Cannon Street told me I should come back when it's dry. She has to put it through the machine and if it's too wet it will rip it to shreds. Silly me.

I also got in to work today at 07:55. There was an appointment scheduled for 08:15 and the reception doesn't open until 9. I gave the chap my number to call when he was downstairs so I could let him in. So I had a sense of feeling that I needed to be there. Guess what? He never showed up. Yep, he called at 10:00 to give some cock and bull. Jeez, I could have had an extra half hour in bed. Some would say I need all the beauty sleep I can get.

What with the transfer window being hours away, Charlton have announced that Graham "Bobby" Stuart has departed for Narwich. I would say that he's been a saint. He never let us down in five and a half years that he was with us. I remember his debut and goal at West Ham, when Johnny Barnes ran the show. Oh how time flies. I would say that I am surprised that he lasted this long. We signed him from Sheffield United and he seemed to be on the way down. But then again what do I actually know? Nothing ...

I do remember Curbs saying that he wouldn't let anyone go unless we got someone in. So I don't expect anymore activity then this afternoon.

I was thinking about the Liverpool game tomorrow. It will be quite weird seeing the Pool without that little shit Owen in their team. Ever time we play them, we all sit there as he tries to win himself a penalty. He goes to ground more times than Heskey, and that's saying something.

I had one of those quiet weekends. I was meant to go out on Saturday but was let down by the usual suspects. No call, phones ringing through. Typical I say ... just let me know. I ended up watching the Bourne Supremacy and American Idol. I know how to live.

My tune of the day: Ma Mi Mama - Louie Vega

Missed the boat ...

Right then. We beat the green and white striped demi-gods. Well I say that, because that's the way they have been perceived by public and press alike. Yes, yes ... lets take nothing away from them. Let's use words like capable, plucky, resilient, footballers ... lets give them the praise they deserve and lets pat tem on the back. Then lets see them off to concentrate on the job in hand.

Having seen the addicks huff and puff against the likes of Dagenham, Walsall, Gillingham and even Exeter over the last few seasons, I'm putting Saturdays performance right up there. We were never behind, we played within ourselves ... and we got lucky with the ELKS goalline clearance with minutes remaining. But that's a load of what ifs. What id your mother was your father???? Yeah, yeah ...

It was actually interesting seeing the team go back to a 4-4-2 formation, giving Bartlett another body up the top. Having read about Frannys lack of faith in Curbs I was hoping for a lot more from the Scouser. To say I was disappointed, well is an understatement. If I had it all to prove I would have put a bit more into it than Franny did. When he lost the ball he just skulked back. People have the audacity to have a go at Lisbie!!! At least he chases back, creates his own chances ... and wants to play for the team. That's not what I saw from our Franny. Anyway ... what do I know, I'm just one amongst a mass.

Yippee, lets all give Yeovil a big hand. Yes, littleuns ... time for bed.

It was a strange place the Valley on Saturday. I fortook my usual seat and went up the back of the North Upper. I was able to stand for the whole game, and was able to join in with a whole 90 minutes of vocal support. All in all, there were about 30 people doing the same. A few others joined in sporadically, and a few times there was a "na .. na .. na" and a clap around the whole ground. It's not what I would say a fearsome, partisan crowd. It's a middle England ... sit back and entertain us sort of crowd. The sort that seems to be bused in from Folkestone. Hey, but what do I know ... we've got loads of seats to fill. Especially when the ground goes up to 40 thousand. Hey what do I know !!!!

Anyway we are in the hat ... and thats what's important.

My tune of the day: When the red red robin - Billy Cotton and his band

I love DVD's ...

Especially if you go to buy The Pajama Game and get Big Breasts of Passion. How come that has never happened to me. What was so funny though, is that the church going (!!!) couple who it happened to watched the damn film all the way through. They couldn't believe what they were seeing!!!! HELLLOOOO ... typical. I'll watch a bit of smut and complain. It sounds like something they would do in Somerset.

Talking of Zummerzet .... it's the Yeovil game tomorrow. They are making all the right noises,l butn I hope that Charlton just keep quiet and turn up and do a job. It would be that easy ... wouldn't it??? This is Charlton.

I was going to go to the gym and do a spin class. But I think I'll give myself a day off. In fact what I may do is go for a jog tomorrow morning. A nice traipse round Lewisham is what the dictor ordered. I haven't actually run since Brazil ... well I didn't do any last Saturday. I prefer the ball into my feet. No chance playing for CIA FC.

Anyway there's a Swear sample sale up in Brick Lane ... so I have to be rushing ...

My tune of the day: Love's on time - Barbara Tucker

Haircut 100 ...

It was 10:30 last night when Ged came round to cut my hair. It only takes him about 15 minutes as he's got it off to a tee. I've had the same sort of cut for about 5 years. It's time for a radical cut .. maybe a Bern, or a Matt ... or I could go for a Graham. Jeff, there's no chance of me copying you ... okay!!!!

Well blogger was playing up all day yesterday so I couldn't get on. It's such a shame because I had so much to say. About Rodley Marsh, the cricket, Liverpool ... oh well lets move on.

I'm actually loking forward to the Cup match on Saturday. It's been a while since I saw Charlton play a new team, and they have never played Yeovil in a competative match. We're actually onto a hiding or nothing. Damned if we win damned if we lose. But I'd like to see us play Franny again. He needs to get some games under his belt and once he scores, he'll get a hatfull. That's what I think anyway ... but what do I know.

I'm having second thoughts on a newish car. I think I'll get a setee instead. I really dont need a car, well not another one. It just sits outside gathering pigeon shit. It's not like I spend my time on the motorway driving up and down is it. I say let the train take the strain.

My tune of the day: Invitation - Norman Connors

Blimey ...

I've had trouble logging on to dis shite all day. It's not good ... and I've now lost my thunder.

Oh well ... I'll be back tomorrow with more ramblings ...

My tune of the day: Golden time of day - Loose Ends

Poor old Jeff ...

Well, I deliberately didn't tell the tale of Jeff "Bones" Prior scoring a spectacular own goal on Saturday. I didn't think it was necessary. Poor old Jeff, making his first appearance in a number of months wellied the ball some 20 yards past the startled keeper. His own keeper. There was no moaning, groaning at the time ... so I didn't want to be the first to bring it up. But Jeff thinks he missed out. Missed out on his chance of being ridiculed. Oh well.

I would have to say that the own goal was definitely spectacular. It was without doubt the best/ worst own goal seen for many a year. It would take Poor old Jeff a good few years to repeat the task, but I don't think he has a few years left in his playing career. But he has more than Bern.

So Jeff, I hope tat helps in your quest for world domination ...

Winter is finally here. It's f'n cold. So I put my thermals on, my sheepskin boots, my padded jacket and shades before I set off to work. I then got on the train to be greeted by the hottest place this side of the equator. Yep, somebody at British Rail had stoked the fire. So we all stood there sweating, coughing and spluttering.

I was going to go to the Ressies last night. It was at the Valley and it was against Leicester. But you know what? I couldn't be bothered. I couldn't brag myself to get in the car and drive 20 minutes to SE7. It may have had something to do with my desire for my bed. I was so knackered. Maybe my 27 years have caught up on me. Anyway they won 2-0, Lisbie got sent off ... and according to Smudge, Curbs looked like a chav in a burb scarf.

I see that Wetherspoons is banning smoking. Yep all it's pubs will be smoke free zones from May 2006. Now please can you tell me what that's about? May 2006!!!! You either do it or you don't. No smoking ... NOW, or just leave it. I think they may ban drinking yet ... you never know.

I did laugh this morning when I saw Mark Hughes going on about El-Hadji Diouf diving to win the game for Bolton. I seem to remember Mark Hughes fall to the ground after colliding with Carl Tiler up at Everton a good few years ago. Tiler got the red and we went on to lose 3-0. Hughesy ... get over yourself ...

My tune of the day: Open Sesame - Kool and the Gang

My legs are killing me ...

In fact I jest. I was a little tired but not too bad after running around on a football pitch on Saturday. The Carlton Internet team made a reappearance, in a match against the Hayes Lane Ultrix ... well Bromley supporters. We actually won 3-1 so it was a great way to start the weekend. It was quite funny being asked why none of us were going to Everton. Maybe due to the fact that I haven't seen us win there, the pricing of matches, the pricing of travel, the standard of travel ... you all know what I'm talking about. It also seems I have a point. Trains from Euston were suspended on Saturday morning due to a fatality in Brum, and engineering works. It took the inspector six and a half hours to get to Goodison. Now I've been there done that ...

Anyway that aside, the boys pulled off another 1-0 victory. They are becoming a very hardworking, industrious unit and if you think that Everton are currently fourth in the table that result is just the ticket. It's funny that when a team don't play well Charlton don't get the credit. It's not us stopping them playing but them having an off day. Marcus Bent had his worst ever game ... but nothing to do with the ELK or Fortune having him in their pocket. Oh well ... bring on Yeovil. You know where I'm going with that though ... don't you.

I had a good Saturday night. Out at the Poet in the City with the Plaistow lot, Claire, Matt, Ruth, Keely, Alex. We seemed to be the first there and the last out. I'm not sure how that works either ... but it was a good night out.

I just had a look at fridays contibution. I actually got 9 comments which must be a record ... but it's quite disappointing that people still want to identify themselves, or give a clue to who they may be. Some do ... and I find it funny when I can work it out, but hey if you want to hide behind your moniker you keyboard warriors you ... well!!!!

Bez won Celebrity BB ... it actually died on it's feet, the old damp squib, but good luck to him. The sixth series starts in a few weeks so I'm sure I'll have some comments to make. Personally I can't think of anything worst than sitting in that house for two months ...

I've just had a great bannana and papaya smoothie. This afternoon I'm going to have a pear and kiwi fruit one. I know how to live ...!!!

My tune on the day: Set them free - Kenny Bobien

Only in America ...

So that's what it takes to get some comments. For Smudges record I didn't get laid. I was out with the bwoys at the End ... had a wickedy, wickedy night ... but deffo no laying.

Put your hands in the air ...

I believe ...

in eating well and drinking well. I believe that the best times in life involve a meal with people you love. I believe that food should be more than simple sustenance. I believe in dessert, especially death by chocolate. I believe that life can be hard and we should take pleasure where we can. I believe in freshly squeezed juice in one hand a glass of wine in the other. I believe in laughing. I believe in fat chips ... or phat chips. I believe in drinking too much and snogging someone you shouldn't. I believe in excess. I believe in smiling at a stranger on the tube, especially when they have big tits. I believe in singing for no aparant reason. I believe in ridiculous dancing. I believe in having a dark secret in your record collection and in your cellar. I believe in waking up and not remembering. I believe that the best place for a tie is around your wrists. I believe in chancing your arm. I believe in dressing up. I believe in dressing down. I believe in dressing slowly for someone else. I believe in telling people what I really think. I believe in the dying art of the grand entrance ...

My tune of the day: I believe - Stevie Wonder

You can wear that with jeans ...

I seem to remember a poll some time ago asking Charlton fans what their preferred colour for the away kit would be. I also remember that the majority of people thought it should be white with maybe red or black shorts. Now it's occurred to me that the club will be launching new home and away kits next summer and I've staking my reputation on the fact that we will have a white away kit. It's going to be white with a smidging of red on it, around the collar, under the arms ... you get the picture. But I'm not feeling it. We won't be able to wear it at Southampton, even at Sunderland if they get promoted, at Arsenal it's a bit silly given their red and white thing. So I say this, what's the point in an away shirt. I thought it was to wear if the home kit clashed with the team you were playing. That would mean that the home team would be wearing red and white, or some play on those colours. Which would mean, or should mean that we wear a kit that doesn't have red or er, white. Maybe yellow, maybe blue ... okay maybe not, maybe a black and pink combo. That would be my choice ... a la Juventus, a black and pink striped number. I can see the fatties now, I'll have the new away kit in XXXL ... oh and the matching pink shorts ...

Word on the street is that next Monday, 24th January will be the worst for winter blues. So what's the difference between this monday coming and last monday? Or the monday after that? Or after that? A monday is a monday, is a monday. They all sh*te ...

Word is also out that porridge is the new black. Sales of porridge are on the increase, and it's supposedly good for getting rid of fat necks!!!!

My tune of the day: Love won't give up - Kenny Bobien

The King is dead ... long live !!!!

Well he was alive and kicking in the film I watched last night ... Bubbahotep. An absolute corker of a film having the King and John F Kennedy in a nursing home down in Texas fighting an old Egyptian Mummy. If you want to watch a throw away film, this is the one.

It was good to see Liverpool take the FA Cup seriously last night. They stuck out a few fringe players and some younguns, and they got beaten. Now I'm sure Benitez knows what he's doing ... in fact I hope he doesn't ... but anyway, the FA Cup isn't important to Liverpool.

Still no action on the transfer front. In fact there have been a few rumours but nothing quite concrete. One of the most interesting ones is Mark Fish to Fulham. Now I'm not sure how this would work, but Fish does seem to be a bit overweight at the moment. Having just come back from injury that's fine but I'm not sure how quickly he could fit into the Fulham back four. Theres also talk of us being in for Nathan Ellington, Heidar Helguson, and Bill Tchato. Now I ask you. Bill Tchato, who just happens to be a Cameroonian left back. Do we need another left back? What do I know ...? I am not Curbs ..!!!!

I can't believe it's Wednesday already. The weeks fly when you're having fun.

My tune of the day: Guarantee For My Heart - Cheryl Lynn

Mr Nasty ...

It seems like Curbo wants to take my role. Well according to the Metro this morning. It seems Curbs is happy to dish out "tough love" ... well now we're talking. No one is guaranteed a run in the team, and he doesn't care that some of the boys are pished off. That's exactly what we want to hear, but come on it's a no story ... a no brainer. Yeah, Jason Euell, Bryan Hughes, Franny Jeffers are all disappointed that they are not playing. But they are still wedged up. They are still all talking home an obscene amount of dough a week. So as pished as they say they are ... I'm sure it's said with a glint in the eye.

So the British public have voted out bad bwoy John McCririck. Now come on, is this the worst piece of voting in the history of Big Brother. I've been catching glimpses of it, and the only thing worth watching was Big John. His ranting, his raving ... it's been great. And when you compare him to Kenzie, Jeremy, Caprice who do absolutely nothing ... well, talk about shoot yourself in the foot. Oh well ... it's nearly Wednesday and Desperate Housewives ...

I've just realised that I don't spend half as much time chatting about my journeys to work. I'm sure I used to be bitter and twisted about the 45 minute journey. Maybe it's me ... mellowing now that I'm 27. But this morning. Well I ask you, it was one of those trips. To start with we had a yawn off, as two suited (and I do think their suits hadn't been dry cleaned since before christmas) city bods yawned from Hither Green right through to London Bridge. I yawn, you yawn ... we all yawn. No hands covering their mouths ... just breathing their shit onto anyone near by. What ever happened to hankies up your sleeves? Then we had the platform okee kokee. Where we all got sent to platform three, then told to go to platform two ... only to be told whoops, platform alteration ... go to platform three. Yep, thanks Mr Railannouncer, was that you're play of the day?

My tune of the day: What am I gonna do - Jimmy Sommers ft. Rahsaan Patterson

Feed the ELK ...

It's a funny old game ... given that we hadn't beaten Brum at home in the Premier league. When Super Mario equalized I think we were all sitting there thinking "Ere we go again!" But credit where credits due, old Curbo went back to the old 4-4-2 and blimey what happened. Two strikers on the pitch, they start passing to each other ... and Bobs yer uncle, two goals. It's easy ... it's an easy game this footie.

I would have to say it was a typically crap middle of the table game. Lots of thwacking the ball up from both teams. But Brum had two big strikers so they were utilising the thwacking a bit better than we were. Bartlett was trying, in fact he won a few headers but there wasn't anyone to head the damn ball onto. It's actually quite interesting, and I think quite worrying to see the flack that some of the players get. Bartlett for example is constantly the butt of criticism. I don't see it myself, as he runs, jumps heads the ball. He even scored a goal ... whoopeee ... so I'm not sure what else he could do. But then again some people want the moon on a stick, no, no ... no .. they want Ronaldo or Jimmy Greaves on a stick. Come on people we can only play with what we've got ... get behind the boys.

I had a nice Sunday. I actually made it over to Columbia Road to have a look at the flower market. I've been putting it off for months, but I went over to Bethnal Green to see Duncan. It was good to see him now he's out of rehab, and it was quite eye opening to hear the stories. The sectioning was one for the book. I would say that Columbia Road is well worth a visit. Go with twenty quid and you will come home with a house full. My front room is a haven for exotic flowers. I may have to do it more often.

So at what point do you stop wishing people a happy new year? I haven't seen some people yet this year and when I see them what do I do?

The Charlton Internet Football Club are re-emerging. It all started with an email on friday, now we have a new web page, some new players and a game arranged for this coming saturday. It's a game against Bromley FC supporters, so if anyone wants a game ... mail me.

My tune of the day: Yesterday - Marvin Gaye

Super size me ...

There's adverts everywhere telling us we can buy one and get one free. Yep, MacEe Dee are saying today is Quarter Pounder with Cheese Day (or in France it's the Royale with cheese day.) But at what point would you really want two lardy old burgers? I thought we were trying to do away with overly obese kids and their golightly parents, but it appears that was just a fad.

Talking of fads, I've been juicing it like a goodun. This morning I had a juice/ smoothie made from a pink grapefruit, a paw-paw, three oranges and some spiralina. I tell you if I can keep this up I'm going to look more buff in a few months. That's more buff than I already do ... if you get me. Last night I juiced up some apples, pineapple, oranges and grapes ... and I'm more regular now than I have been in months. I'm not going to touch the apricots though.

I was having a chat with Wilhelm and blondie yesterday on messenger. The blonde one started saying that I had lost my edge, that I was just waffling, that maybe I was bitter. I did laugh. Bitter, I am generally bitter, it's just the way I am ... unfortunately my glass is half empty. I've tried to get it half full ... but my cards always take me past 21. I'm always bust ... kerching!!!

I had a call yeterday about the car I think I want to get. There may be a good one coming up, but I'm getting the feeling that it may be out of my price range. I'm going to have to do some serious thinking. Sod it ... I should just buy the thing ...

I've just been sent the link to a concentration test. I've tried it ... but it's difficult. I nearly got close once, but see if you can do it ... Concentration test ...

After the exploits in the Cup it's back to the toil of the league tomorrow. We've got Birmingham, and it's dawned on me that we haven't beaten them at home since they've been back in the Prem. But the Savage won't be playing, he's still in the dog house. It will be interesting to see if Heskey stays on his feet now he's in the Midlands and not the Icey North. But then again when he was at Leicester he played a bit like Tonya Harding on a good day. We'll have to wait and see. It seems like Fortune may be missing and that mean the Fish would be back in. Given his cameo last week, he seems slower, over-weight, but as crap as ever. If I was Heskey I'd put on my best climbing boots. See, my glass is always half empty, or should that be half full ... Oh I can't remember ...

The suns shinning outside ... I think it's time to get my shades out.

My tune of the day: Circles - Nina Jayne featuring Roy Ayers

Happy Birthday King of Sweden

Not to Bern, in fact he can sod off ... but to me. A year ago today I put up my first blog on this site, and here I am a year later. Whooopeeee, I hear you say ... but hey I'm enjoying it.

It's in the paper this morning. The Jason Euell story. It seems that Harry Redknapp wants Jase to help in their relegation fight. But they want him on loan!!!! Yeah, I can really see that. How many players have we got in our squad? How many can we afford to loan out? Indeed, it just doesn't add up ... but then again I'm not Curbs so what do I know.

My new New York smoothie maker turned up this morning. So instead of a toasted bagel, or a sausage sandwich I'm having a blitzed grapes/ oranges and spirulina juice drink. The problem is that I've got to keep it up ... the question is whether I'll be doing this in two months time? It's the way forward.

Seems like the Queen has been taking a leaf out of Phillips book. She's quoted as saying that Paris will win the vote for the 2012 Olympics and she says that there was a serious lack of support amongst Londoners. Yep, you go gal. On the pulse of what Londoners really want. A serious lack of support ... what does that mean? I think that the majority of Londoners want the Olympics, because we can see the benefits. An increase in funding for transport, new stadia, a communal feeling throughout the city ... we could go on. It's typical of the Royal family though ... and I'm not going to comment on Harry ... party pooper

My tune of the day: It's a beautiful life - Dennis Ferrer

Birthday wishes ...

Belated wishes to old Bern who I think turned 37 yesterday. He doesn't actually look a day over 36, but what do us 27 year olds know.

The word on the street is that Jason Euell will be allowed to leave. Now I'm not sure how this works, but how can you let your top goal scorer for the past 3 season leave, just like that? Because he has thrown a strop or two I think, or maybe he has voiced his concerns at being left out of the team. It seems like a fair point though ... if you were Euelly would you be asking the same questions?

Still no news on any new signings. I won't be holding my breathe ... oh hold on, we could see a mad rush come the 31st and get Robbie Thingy and Jespar Watshisname.

I watched a bit of Big Brother yesterday. I'm not sure what to actually make of it. There we have a bloke who won't talk, a woman who could drop dead at any moment ... another woman who coped the hump and bolted, and a group of Zombies a la Shaun of the Dead. Entertainment, your having a laugh. It's more than just entertainment ... it's a bleedin life choice.

I was having another flick through the Sun today and there's an article about "How to change the bloke you've got into the man you dreamed of."

Sorry ... !!!

This is so unbelievable. Can someone explain why a woman would be with/ marry a bloke she didn't really (in an ideal world) want? It wouldn't be something to do with being left on the shelf ... would it? The old body clock ticking, so they have to make do!!! Thought as much. I just don't get it myself ... you try and change me and you'll get short thrift.

"Oh I don't get ya hair ..." "You're clothes are a bit excessive." "You're a bit too freaky ...!!!"

I say freak that ... this is me ... live with it. I am as they say ... a one off.

My tune of the day: Does it feel good - BT Express

It's raining men ...

Well not quite in Carlisle, but jeeeez how much rain does one man want. It doesn't actually bare thinking about, how the rain can just cause so much damage but after the last few weeks who are we to doubt the elements. As I know a few people in Carlisle I emailed them to see hgow things were. Given that I hadn't spoken to them for a while it was good to hear that they were all okay. Unfortunately they know some people who actually lost everything. Not good ... Carlisle floods

We had some rain down Sarf last night but not too much, there was some wind as well ... but I didnt think it was that bad. That was until I picked up the paper this morning to see, well what could only be described as the end of an era. The old Lime Tree down in Canterbury, the one in the cricket ground has been blown down. Can you believe it ... 150 years of history ... the felled tree

Well the stiffs took one hell of a beating last night off of the Palarse. Four nil it was, oh well I think I can let them have that one.

A point of note, why do people who are walking down the stairs just suddenly stop then turn and try to come straight back up. This is during rush hour when the stairs are loaded and there are clearly defined rules, yes rules of thumb to what one must do. You should walk to the top then come down on the correct side. Am I asking just a bit too much?

It's just started raining here, time to buckle down the hatches ...

My tune of the day: Big Mistake - Alexander Hope

Number 19 ...

Paul Hardcastle will be turning in his grave ... not literally, but you get the point.

We crept past Rochdale, giving them a day to remember. We even gave them a condescending clap as they left the pitch. It was like patting a boy on his head who had tried his hardest, or clapping those idiots at the London Marathon in deep sea divers outfits. You know what I mean. It was oh so NOT Charlton. When was the last time we could smugly clap a team. Answers on a postcard.

Anyway 4-1 was an acceptable score, given that Rochdale played quite well, but class told in the end ... **splutters on his coffee**.

It gets better. We've drawn Yeovil ay home. Another League two side, but they are top and still in the Coca-Cola Cup. But come on, if we are going to progress in this damn thing then we have to play and beat Yeovil. Yes, No ... answers again on a postcard.

I was just thinking if Charlton have ever played Yeovil. I think they have in a friendly but not in a competitive game. So it's going to be something new for everyone. I have actually been to see Evil play and it was at their old ground, the sloping Huish. There were four of us supporting Welling that day, and the Wings scored a goal for each of us in a 4-0 win. It was so typically Welling as this was a Wednesday night and on the previous Saturday they had been beaten 4-0 by Chorley. I remember that it was 4-0 after 25 minutes so we all ended up in the bar. Good time? Get yourself another postcard.

Here's a question for you ...? Have you ever felt like you've been shat on from a great height? Er, no postcards needed here.

My tune of the day: Blaze of Glory - Pharrel ft Clipse

Running round wembley with our willys hanging out ...

Well not literally, and not Wembley. But hey you get the picture. It's that special time of the year. It's FA Cup third round Saturday. When we all dream of lifting the old trophy in May, but in reality get shafted by some tin pot lower division team, who I could play for. I remember when we played Exeter. We won the game 3-1, but how hard was it. Two JJ overheads sealed it, but Exeter looked quite good. This is the same Exeter who at the end of the season came bottom of the Football league and went out of the league. Yep, we can make a cows ear look like a silk purse.

I won't dwell on the Gillingham game, or the Dagenham one, or the Walsall one ... but it's not been pretty viewing over the last few years. Apart from Coventry away. Remember that one!! When we went 2-0 down their fans were singing "Can we play you every week." Well can you guess what our song was when Andy Hunt had put us 3-2 ahead. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to work that out. Then it all kicked off around the streets of Coventry as we walked back to the train station. You have to laugh.

Anyway ... we've got Rochdale tomorrow. This is Cyril Smiths team who have been in the bottom league for about 30 years. Well I wish them a good day out, but just that a good day out ... then we can pack them off home. Do you think I believe that? Yeah right ...

Anyway onto more important issues. It's Celebrity Big Brother. Whoooosh!!! Brigitte Nielsen has already flashed her kitty and John McCRIRICK says he likes big breasts. Blimey, thats a new one on me. It's quite funny that they have got someone from Blazin Squad in there. Now is that what they call scrapping the bottom of the barrel??

Oh and another thing. It's been reported that British women spend about £100,000 on clothes in a lifetime. That works out at £214 a month. Now I know some women that wouldn't spend £214 in a year, and some men that wouldn't spend that in a lifetime. They have one jacket, one pair of jeans ... jeeez.

Oh and finally, well played Paulo. He lead Lazio to a 3-1 win over the old enemy Totti and the boys.

My tune of the day: Now I can see - Kenny Bobien

The wonders of the internet!!

Yep, you can just about do anything now. We live in a technological age. Or infact do we? So why can't we use TV pictures to make decisions, why can't we have micro-chips in the balls? Can you imagine it, micro-chipped balls. Especially if it was running on Windows XP. Every time the ball went near the family stand the scoreboard would register a goal. I can see it now ...men watching football would be in their element.

What is it about the transport infrastructure in this country? I was coming back from East London last night, just a 15 minute drive through the Blackwell Tunnel. Easy!!! Or so I thought. As I came down the approach road I spied a large queue. Forty five minutes later I had just hit the actual tunnel. Forty five minutes to driver about 600 yards. I appreciate that they need to do repairs and stuff but it's a joke. Let the train take the strain ... no chance.

On the football front James Beattie is hoping for an England recall. He has a slight dig at Sven about his previous chances and goes on to say that moving to Everton will enable him to get back in the picture. I can see Sven agonizing over this now. The same way as Scully agonizing over the Charlton buses in the medway and the same way that Duncan Fletcher is agonizing over whether I can slot in at number six now Freddy is injured.

I'm toying with the idea of getting myself a new car ... not a new car, but a new car for me. Watch this space ...

My tune of the day: All falls down - Kanye West ft John Legend

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts ... go get some.

Ossies going to Wembley ...

So he sang. But he should have been running the line at UManU last night. You have to laugh though don't you? Well I'm trying to styful a laugh as I phone every Spud I know.

Only in America eh ... only in America!!!!

The world carries on after the tsunami. But our little piece of it should come to a standstill at noon today with a 3 minute, that's three minute period of silence. I would ask if everyone could do their little bit, just a though.

I was just flicking through the paper and came across the Abu Hamza story. It actually beggars belief, that in the twenty first century you can get away with this. He is claiming that his toenails are too long, AND IT HAS LEFT HIM UNABLE TO WALK. Well, couldn't they stick him in a wheelchair and push his ass down the street? Just a thought.

We really are all back in the run of things. The Christmas trees are coming down, the queues for train tickets aren't as big as they were yesterday, and Everset is back on the CIFC email list. Oh he does talk some tosh.

Celebrity Fat club!!! What's that all about???

My tune of the day: Fresh pair of panties on - Snoop Doggy Dog

And a Happy New Year to you ...

Well, I finally took the time to get back on line and wish everyone a 'Appy New Year'. I decided to have a three day break from the web to see if I missed it, and you know what ... I did. Yep, I missed the fact that I can keep in contact with friends at the drop of a hat, missed the fact that I can search for anything I so wish, from the hopeless fools I support right through to buying tat off of ebay. I'm currently bidding on another pair of boots, like I need new clothes/ shoes ... that should be my resolution.

Anyway, it's 2005 and we are all doing exactly the same things as we always have. Joining a gym, deciding to eat healthier, giving up smoking, booking a summer holiday ... looking forward to the FA Cup 3rd round. It's actually quite laughable.

I've made a conscious effort to have a resolution that I can stick to. Something positive, that will benefit me. Oh and guess what? It's damn hard. I decided that I've been too hard on myself, and infact too nice to other people and that needs to change. I need to call it the way I see it. actually take no prisoners, pull no punches. Call the proverbial spade a spade. But I'm not too sure that will work!! People don't take me seriously enough, so I may be onto a loser. But I'm going to give it a go.

At about 5:15 last night I was feeling sorry for the 300 odd sods who had made their way up to Blackburn to see us roll over and die. The 300 or so that had to jump on a plane, train or automobile to go half the length of the country to see us huff and puff around, and then listen to Curbo say that maybe he made a mistake with the team selection. Oh righty .... he maybe made a mistake, MAYBE. So what's the point of a squad?? What's the point of Euell and Konch? NO, what's the point of JJ???

I finally got an email off of Timbo in Thailand. You would have thought that nothing had happened from the tone of it. Oh well as long as he's alright.

Seems like the English cricket team have fallen off of the wagon. I'm sure that the Aussies are quacking ...

My tune of the day: Who needs love - Incognito

New Year ... Mwah

Well that's another year dusted down, and filed away. It seems to have shot by. I can remember last years New Years bash, I can remember my birthday in April, I can remember that we had no summer to write home about. Yep another year, maybe not another year wiser ... and I would say it gets scarier.

On the football front it's been quite strange. We are more or less in the same position we were last year, minus one quality player ... well two actually, but the boys that have come in are starting to show a bit of quality. Yep Dandy Murphy drove me to the brink, but he's slowly winning me round. Romms is just that ... Romms. You know what you are getting, so just let him get on with it. The EL K well what can you say. A great bit of business, and it goes to show that you don't have to break the bank. There you go Jerome ... a happy New Year to you fella.

I've been thinking of New Years resolutions. But it's just a cop out. I don't smoke, drink or make whooopy. I go to the gym and my body is a temple. I am happy go lucky, don't moan, whinge or get overly offended ... I love my neighbour ... so I'm not sure how I can improve. So there's my conundrum!!!

I'm still a bit concerned about the boys in Thailand. I have been told they are ok, but the more you read and see the more you worry. I had a call from Deniz in Brazil asking if Timbo was ok. I had to just tell them that no new is good news and work it from there. It's all a bit surreal.

I think my New Years resolution has got to be to condense down on the tat I've got in my flat. I have so much old sh*t that I need to clear out. So I think the plan has got to be to sort it all out.

I was thinking I could try to be like everyone else and list my favourite things in 2004. Like my fav album, film, book ... but come on. How predictable is that?

Anyway, I hope 2004 wasn't too bad for you and that 2005 brings a bit more joy to you and yours. Have a great New Year everybody ...

My tune of the day: At midnight - T Connection

Passion vs Ability ...

I'm just listening to Talk Sport, not the cricket but a discussion about going to watch quality football in relation against passionate football. They've just mentioned someone who was a Charlton supporter for many years who now goes to watch Barnet, as he says they show more passion. Well as a watcher of non-league football for many years I would like to say that is bull. It's generally a clogging style of football, ball in the air ... no guile, no creativity ... you get the picture.

I went down Yates with some of the boys last night to watch the Arse game. How funny was the whole spectacle? The Ashley Cole handball, the moaning Newcastle fans ... the fact that Lee Bowyer will never play for England. I'm just hoping that the Arse have played all their trump cards before this Saturday.

I've decided against changing the format of this page. What I will try to do is put more pictures up, integrate a few links ... you get the picture.

It's just dawned on me that it's the year 2005 in a few days. Blimey ...

My tune of the day: Fantasy - Earth Wind and Fire

Over and out ...

Well that's done and dusted, figgy pudding, cranberry sauce and 3 points against the Scousers. It was an interesting game, livened up by Big Bad Dunc who just lost the plot.

On another point a couple of the boys are over in Thailand at the moment. Tim, Ginge, Craig and Debs. The word is that they are okay ... but it can't be the best time to be over there. We're thinking of you ...

I had a good trip up North on Boxing Day, with Wendal, Big Dave and Dudley. It was an interesting trip, that included the giving of christmas presents, the drinking of large amounts of bubbles and wandering around the club in a black Brazil kit and cowboy boots. I can carry it off ... you know that.

I'm trying to work out how I can jazz this page up in the new year, so I'm open to suggestions. You know how to contact me ... come on Kev let me know.

I'm the only one in the office at the moment. Unbelievable ...

My tune of the day: A better world - Ageha Anthem

How big should a tree be ???

Christmas ... bah, humbug !!!!

No, not me ... I finally got into the Christmas spirit last night. A good night over in Plaistow, with homemade sausage rolls, figgy pudding and Nat King Cole. I finally left at gone 2:30 and sung a few carols on nthe way home.

Christmas has arrived ...

I've been thinking that it's nearly a year since I started this and it's been quite enjoyable. But I was also contemplating a change in direction to how I'd write, how I'd present my ramblings and maybe the design. But sod it, if it ain't broke don't fix it. I'll have to see ... I don't want to get to Daily Mail on you ... ya get me.

Isn't it funny when people suddenly disappear. There's a mate who says he'll lend me his car to go and pick up my Mum, but have I been able to get hold of him for the last few days. Yeah right ... believe ...


I can't remember the last time I didn't go to footie on Boxing Day. But it's been yera since we had a match as far away as Southampton. It's just a pain to get to ... I remember the West Ham debacle, Southend ... Fulham and Chelsea and Palarse at home. So I'll have to be contented with trying to listen to the match on the net and watching Reading v Watford on Sky. Great call eh ...

Well ... I've got to go find some Cranberry sauce so I'll hook up with you all a bit later ...

My tune of the day: You're the best - Arnold Jarvis

Donald where's your trousers ...

Well it's a countdown all the way to a stuffed turkey. I'm still not feeling it.

Anyway I arrived home to find a letter sent from up North. It contained a picture of me and a babe at the last Southport. I would have to say I do look good in photos, I am as they say "buff". I may have to scan it in and let you all have a look.

So it would seem the Charlton Athletic Christmas party went off without any problems. Having seen refernce to the UManU party, the Man City party, the Arse and WBA parties in the paper over the last few days it's not because of trying. So should we be led to believe that the Charlton boys are wet blankets ... or maybe people aren't interested in reading that JJ got pished etc, etc.

I've just realised that I haven't bought any food for the festive season. Which isn't such a bad thing as I'm going over to my bros in Brook Green, but I will need brekkie on Boxing Day. I may be eating Terrys Chocolaye Orange then ... but don't tell Terry.

I'm still having difficulty trying to work out if the tubes are running on Boxing day. I have to get to Heathrow so it may be DLR to Canary Wharf, tube to Green Park then onto Heathrow. But I'm not sure what's running yet ... and the TfL site is about as much help as ... well you know the proverbial Chocolate teapot.

I watched the Strictly Come Dancing Chrimbo special last night. Oh how funny was that. It's actually a quality programme and has me thinking about taking up Ballroom Dancing. Now to find a partner ...

My tune of the day: Peanut butter - Gwen Guthrie

Three days and counting ...

Is it me or is the buildup always a lead to a big let down. Yeah, okay I'm not 7 anymore so Chrimbo just isn't the same. It's a shame because I really want to be in somesort of festive mood. I haven't even been to that many Christmas Parties ... maybe my network of friends is slowly diminishing. Party and push it ... yeah right.

Well the dust has settled from the win over Fulham and there are still knockers and disbelievers out there. So according to some Shaun Bartlett wasn't or isn't up to it, Francis Jeffers was put off by Jason Euells lunge for the ball and Radostan Kishishev has a crap haircut. All maybe valid points apart from the haircut. What's it got to do with Mr Suburbia how Kish has his hair? Get over yourselves ... move along, we are in seventh heaven ... so have a happy christmas.

I think today may well be my last trip to the gym for a week or so. One last LBT (Legs, bums and tums) and then I can have a blow. The only problem with that is come the new year the gym is packed with all those New Years resolution muppets who don't know what they are doing, clog up the machines ... then leave after a month.

For what it's worth I like Rads haircut ... but JJ's is another point entirely.

I sat down and watched Coffy on dvd last night. A great 70's blaxploitation film starring Pam Grier. I've actually watched it a few times and it's a fairly basic story but enjoyable. Especially the food fight section ... you know you want to get it out.

I can't go any further without mentioning the cricket. I think that what England have achieved over the last 2 years is remarkable and I say long may it continue.

My tune of the day: Down here in hell (with you) - Van Hunt

Feed the ELK ... and he will score ...

We sang as Mr El Karkouri rose to nod home Dandy Murphys freekick. Well me and James did ... it was just on eof those nights. A rather quiet start ended up with Dandy having his best game, that I've seen, Jerome taking the absolute michael out of Rosenior (Does anyone remember when his dad played for us? Pigeon steps was his name ...) the Kish becoming more like the terminator with every haircut and the team storming up to seventh in the table. Well I'm not going to get carried away, but it was a pleasing sight to actually see some football being played and us not being given the run around. It's been a funny season, but it could have been a lot worst ... a lot worst. We may have just re-signed Parker ... now don't all laugh will you.

I think it's about time I looked at my broadband connection. I have been with aol for a number of years and their service hasn't really improved. Given that I'm also paying quite a lot of money, I ask myself for what? So maybe that's what I need to do as my New Years resolution. Actually look at what I'm paying money for and what I'm not using.

I've just realised that Christmas is only a few days away!!!! I've not really done a lot of shopping so I'd better get my skates on. What to get people, that's the problem ...

My tune of the day: The Christmas Song (version 1) - James Brown

It's a Scottish thing ...

So there I am in the small shop round the corner. A bottle of Lucozade and a bag of crisps. It's only 80 pence but I've just pulled out a Scottish fiver. I might have well have taken a dump in the middle of the shop. No, no ... and a double no. He wasn't going to take it. I stand there looking at him, saying it's Scottish and it's real. He's not having any of it. So after a 10 minute stand off, I've convinced him that it's genuine and if his boss has a problem I'll see him next time I'm in. Given that I'm in there everyday it's a sad moment. So it got me to thinking, why do we have Scottish banknotes? Why are they valid if England? Why do most people not want to accept them? All this on a Monday morning ... roll on the Fulham.

It's been another strange weekend. No football to speak of, lots of drinking, food ... and very little sleep. So all good in other words.

This was the weekend that Chris Powell finally left the ship and sailed through the Blackwell Tunnel to Wet Spam. The first Charlton player in my lifetime to get picked for an England Squad and to actually play. I remember that I was in Scotland, just outside Hamilton when the news of Chrissys inclussion came through. There were text messages flying around everywhere and it was a proud moment to think that one of ours had been picked to represent England. And as much as Southend and Derby want him, I do mean one of our own. Chrissy what a man, what a legend. Oh, and I won't mention that World Cup suit.

So what's all this about Jimmi Harkishin? You know Dev out of Corrie. At what point do you get filmed taking a line? Given that you're on the telly!!! Smile Jimmi ... you're on Candid Camera.

It's footie tonight. We're home to Fulham. I seem to remember they always turn us over. I won't be holding my breathe. It's a cold Monday night, on the telly ... just before Christmas ... need 3 points.

My tune of the day: Santa Claus go straight to the Ghetto - James Brown

Mistletoe and wine ...

So we had our Office Chrimbo party last night. A nice Thai meal and loads of Greygoose Vodka. Nothing much else to report really. It's was more of a small intimate doo really .. interupted by the odd Rock ballard of the dance floor!!!

Luckily it's another footballless weekend, we're not playing 'til Monday, live on Sky ... woooo ... that means I may be able to get some shopping done, but I'm not counting on it ...

I haven't mentioned the fact that James Brown ... the MoFO Godfather of the Good Groove, the Guvnor, the Hardest working man in showbiz has been recovering from cancer. Mr Brown is 71 years old and is still touring and for all us soul heads out there is the one. I'm going to go and listen to some James right now.

Oh I'm in the process of compiling an electronic christmas card at work, and I'm reading that there's a new virus out there that disguisses itself as exactly that. Jeeez ... how hard is my job????

I am thinking about going to do a spin class. But I think I may go and have a steam and a sunbed instead ... it's got to make more sense ... I've just realised I'm feeling a tad delicate.

I'm feeling a purple pringle jumper at the moment ... Why I'm not sure ...!!!!

My tune of that day: Holding you, Loving you - Don Blackman

Destroyed by the Woman he loves ....

So there we have it, the truth about Kev. He had to move to Sweden to escape the wrath of the woman he loved. It mirrors someone else in the news at the moment ... but his name escapes me.

So that's the end of the road for one Richie Benaud. The ECB have sold all cricket TV rights to Sky. So after 40 years of cricket commentry Richie will be packed off back to Australia, leaving us Nasser Hussain and David Gower. Now what ever you think about cricket it is a truely national gane and should be available to the masses on terrestrial TV. But Sky have given highlights to Channel 5, and would you believe it that only 80 per cent of the UK public have access to Channel 5. So there you have it ... the end as we know it ... everything is about money. Oh well ... here's ato a good Ashes series next summer.

I've just been looking through the Metro and they have a little piece on would you pass the Britishness test. It's a handbook detailing what immigrants should know about Britain. Hang on, I'm English ... not British. Well in fact I'm a Londoner but that's digging it a bit too far. One of the questions is "In what years were the Welsh Assembly and Scottish Parliament inaugurated? Well my answer would be who cares!!!! Another question is "If you spill a stranger's drink in a pub by accident, what would you do " ... "Sneak off, Say it was their fault, or buy them another drink." Well ... blow me ... that's unbelievable ... absolutely unbelievable.

Anyway ... just off to get the boat ...

My tune of the day: Revival - Martine Girault

Or these lovely roguish ... Cowboy boots ...

Well it's either these clumpy, cloppy BASE shoes ...

It's Christmas time ...

Well it's the season of goodwill to all men ... but it seems to have passed Robbie Savage by. The pictures of him trying to gouge Olof Mellbergs eye is disturbing in the least. Especially after hiw words after Sundays game, dedicating the victory to the Swede.

Oh and our Kelly is in the paper this morning telling us her heart lies in North London, with the Arse ... but had been down Charlton to show off the medals as a favour for a few friends. So there you have it ... I wonder what she did with that Charlton shirt she was handed ...???

Oh and Jason Euell has started the old quit threat stuff. Jase the ace has not played since September and is now a bit pished off. Given that he has been the top scorer for the last 3 seasons he has got a point. It's got to be a toss up between Jase and Radostin but it's down to Curbs. He picks the team and given that Jase is on a shed load of money I don't get what his problem is. Jase get over it ...

On another issue the Tube workers have decided to strike on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve. Hmmm ... is what I say. Does this mirror the Train drivers that striked recently to attend a Christmas Party. Or as they report that the ASLEF drivers want the same deal as the RMT drivers who recently got a 35 hour week and 52 days holiday. Silly me, given that the ASLEF lot just recently settled on a deal for 43 days leave they now want to go back to the table. Work that one out ... I've signed a new improved contract but I want to forget about it because my mate negotiated a better deal. Schucks ...

Looking through the Metro ther's a little piece on how to read the vibes if someone fancies you at the Christmas Party. It says if a bloke fancies a gal he will

"Stroke his beard" ... "Start touching other men" - thats more about back-slapping and arm-punching ... "Make space -maximising movements" ...

Well there you have it. Thats where I've been going wrong!!! I should have listened to Kev all the time ...

It's ahircut time tomorrow ... and I'm still undecided!!! An 80's flick or curly perm ...

My tune of the day: Peppermint Candy - Chocolate Girl

It's a spiritual thing ...

So there we have it. Big Ron and the programme on why he said what he said. It brings about a lot of debate, but can be summed up in two sentances from the programme.

"When I was a lad, we used to call them (THEM????? ) 'Darkies' not the N word"

and the one about Ronald Reagan when the chap said ...

"Ronald said when he was growing up America didn't have race issues, that was unless you where black."

It's quite an eye opener. Well it is for me anyway having grown up in a predominantly white area through the 80's and having seen the perceptions of black people, white people, cultures and everything that goes with it. Personally I don't see the problem, although some people have a problem with me ... but hey they'll get over it.

I do like Darcus Howe ... although he grates on a lot of people.

The Youth team got beaten in the FA Youth Cup last night. 1-0 in extra time. A bit of a shame given the high profile the lads have been getting over the last few months, but maybe they are not as good as we are led to believe.

I had a fairly uneventful journey to work today. I was listening to a Paul "Trouble" Anderson mix and had a smile on my face most of the way. I quite like it when I'm left to nod my head on the train. I do get some weird stares though ... but I say WTF.

My tune of the day: In love with a thug - Snoop Dog

Who needs an agent ... ??

Right, I've just been reading the Sky Sports website and came across n interseting article. It's about Chris Powell and his ongoing transfer to West Ham. In it his agent gets quoted. His agent being one Tony Finnigan, who I used to play 5 a side with a few years back and has played for Palarse in his time.

It seems that Chrissy has snubbed the deal as he is not happy with the wages being put forward by the East London, Championship club.

Powell's agent Tony Finnigan insists the left back is prepared to take a pay cut to join West Ham but is holding out for a satisfactory deal.

"If you pay peanuts you get monkeys," said Finnigan.

"Powell's played for England and he's coming from Charlton, not Northampton.

Now how funny is this? You pay peanuts you get, er Darren Powell, Gavin Willaims, Teddy Sherringham. Now I wonder if Paulo would like to go back there ??

Arise Queen Kelly ...

Well she won it. The BBC Sports Personality of the Year that is. But then again who else was in the running. Paula, Freddy, Frankie, Ben or Ronnie. There you go, not a very inspiring list, but hey.

So Britains Heavyweight hope Danny Williams took a hell of a battering. He hung on for 8 rounds but really never looked like stepping up to the plate. It really goes to show how bad Mike Tyson has become, and how one win however deserved, however lucky can put you in a place you don't want to be.

Talking of places I don't want to be, it was at 5 o'clock on Saturday standing at one end of Portobelo Road that I wapped the Charlton score and cheered as it came up with a 1-0 win. The days of me either going to the game or trying to find the score at 3:05 have long gone. It's a shame but I think I have finally grown up. Saying that, I did sit down to watch the 50 minutes highlights on Sky on Saturday night. I have to take my hat off to Danny Murphy. I've not been his greatest fan but all our play did seem to come through him, or that's what the TV showed, and Bartletts miss wasn't as bad as everyone has made out. You have to be there to miss'em ... don't you Mr Owen.

Anyway another 1-0 away win, after we beat Chrystal Palarse last week. I'm not sure if I mentioned it? We are up to 8th place and it's all quite surreal. We haven't been playing that well, but we are now above Bolton and are hot on Liverpools heels.

I can't go on without mentioning the X-factor thing. Good old Steve got slated by Sharon Osbourne and ended up winning. Well he's got an average voice for an average joe, but the X-FACTOR he ain't. They're also trying to say he's a bit of a heartthrob, hmmm ... well if that's the case I appologies to Batnie for doubting your looks. And no I'm not looking for a lift to Soton on Boxing Day, so you're okay there Bern.

I haven't had a moan about commuting for some time. But I think I've reached a point where every day there's something that happens that pishes me off. From Mr Base Shoes Man treading on my delicate feet, through to Mrs I ate all the pies breaking wind. Now they are rejigging the timetables, and not allowing you to book tickets through the Christmas period. Oh well ... let the train take the strain ...

My tune of the day: You dazzle me - Dazzle

The Xmas Party Guide ...

So now they are saying that you've got to ban mistletoe. Just in case you get sued for sexual harassement. Well, have you seen the state of some of these muppets. Mingers is too nice a word. They would be lucky if I waved a shitty stick at them let alone want to kiss them.

I would have to say good luck to Danny Williams in his attempt to win the Heavyweight crown on Saturday. It just goes to show what you can achieve if you put your mind to it. I was pleasantly surprised when Danny beat Mike Tyson, but I think this may just be a little step to far. Here's hoping I'm wrong.

I managed to get round to watching the end of I-Robot last night. I would say another good throw away film. If you get the chance watch it.

I'm starting my Christmas shopping tomorrow. It's going to be Portobello or Kings Road. I suppose it will depend on what mood I'm in. But then again I could say sod it and go to the Hawthorns ... no, I don't think I will.

My tune of the day: I love Music - The O'Jays

Saint Harry ...

Now how funny is that????? Harry Redknapp turning up at Saint Mary's little after a two week dash from down the road. If you saw the press conference with Harry and Milan Mandaric you will realise how funny this actually is. When Mandaric grabbed Harry round the neck when a reporter asked him about the Southampton job. Harry might as well stick two fingers up at Pompey and all that sail in her. I think that's a definate for a Sky Soccer Sunday.

I watched the end of the Liverpool match last night. Quite a thrilling ending, but I thought Andy Gray overstepped the mark a bit. He didn't do that on Sunday ...!!!!

I see the Sun have got another campaign up and running. It's called save our christmas. They are looking at turning back the tide of politically correct meddling. I would say this time I agree ... especially after listening to the Phil Spector Christmas Medlay this morning. I want some figgy pudding, and I want it now.

I tried to watch I-Robot last night, but it's a bit of a mistake trying to watch a film at gone midnight. I seem to remember about 15 minutes then the rest as they say ... is Zzzzzzzz ...

My tune of the day: Never again - Kathy Brown

Feed me now ...

It's only just over 2 weeks til Christmas, and I just haven't got the spirit. Well I've got some Havana Club and some brandy but not the Chrimbo spirit. I thought I may put my tree up tonight, but I'm still feeling that it's a bit early. I can remember doing it last year. It can't be a year since it went up, it can't be ... no I won't believe it ... did I do a Christmas thing in July?

Putting Christmas aside its about 3 weeks from the year 2005. That's half way through this decade. Blimey I remember the Millenium, spending time in Italy, drinking a toast as the clock hit 12. Five years ago ... I'm sure I've missed out on something here.

I took a look at some of The Palarse discussion boards, what with us having beaten them on Sunday. I'm not sure if I have mentioned that? And one by one the discussions turn out a little left field. They are currently moaning that the Forth official held up 2 minutes injury time and Charlton scored at the 2 minute 12 second mark. See for yourself ... http://forums.cpfc.org/showthread.php?s=a321e232df0f2398a026003669bd7804&threadid=96559&perpage=25&pagenumber=1

I see that Welling took one hell of a beating last night. It seems that the mini revival is over and Paul Parker is back under the spotlight. Luckily my £9 stayed in my pocket, and that's where it's staying.

Right ... I've got to start my Christmas shopping this weekend. But I need to get my list sorted, and it's just dawned on me that it's my Mum's birthday this Sunday. I better get my finger out.

I just sold those cowboy boots that I bought on ebay. They didn't fit, and I lost a fiver on the price. Cowboy boots, I ask you ... at what point would I look good in them. Don't answer that !!!

My tune of the day: The little drummer boy - Johnny Cash

Yadda, yadda ....

So I sign into my email and realise that I have been hacked. They've used my account to send hundreds of unsolicited emails to every person on aol with names that begin with A and B. From Aaron Aardvark through to Bernie Batnee. Jeeeez ... why can't people just leave me alone.

Things didn't go to plan yesterday. I'm used to it really, so I wasn't surprised ... but hey. At least I don't support Palarse.

I'm reading the paper and Louis Walsh says that Steve looks like Fred West. Great call Louis!!! Maybe you want to look in the mirror.

A shout out to Mush who reminded me what I should be doing ... and put me in the right direction ... quality.

My tune of the day: Funky People -Blaze

Simon Jordan , Ian Dowie , Raymond Bloye, Artur Waite , Nooky the bear , Joe Brand , Kid Jensen , Bert Head , any body from Shirley or Coulsdon, Vince Hilaire, Malcolm Allison, Fiona Richmond , makers of large Baths, John Fryer ... you sellout , Budgie Byrne , Steve Kember , Surrey Street Market , Sinatra's in Croydon , Dennis in the last minute.

It's a strange game and ting ...

Well as the forth official held the board up showing 2 extra minutes, I think we thought we had got out of jail. El Kark had conceded a penalty that definitely was but Deano had made the save and we had played our get out of jail free card. Having listened to Dowie et al moan about Dean being a few feet off of his line you have to laugh. If this is all he can come up with then the world is a changing place. Yep Deano was a few feet off his line, but what a save, and to you Mr Dowie, Mr Invincible (sic!!!!) ... siddddannnnnnn and shut up. When Dennis picked up the ball and cut inside I looked at Mr Mooney, he looked at me and we held our collective breaths. Bang and the ball was nestling in the back of the net. Cue the celebrations, the dancing around the room, the whooooping, as Mrs Mooney tried to calm us down by pointing at young Emily fast asleep on the setee. You'll wake her with all your noise she cried. "Get in there" was the reply as we settled back down to light up a celebratory cigar.

I was looking for stripy nigels at London Bridge this morning. But unfortunately there were none. Oh well, I'll see if I can find any on the way home.

On another note, I went to the Ministry on Saturday night. It was the first time there for a few years, I don't actually like the place if truth be told but I had a surprisingly good night. It was good to be out with the boys and girls again, having a boogie to "Trouble" who mashed it up with some proper Disco flavours.

Right now onwards and upwards ... I think I may have a full english ...

My tune of the day: Celebrate the world - Womack & Womack

I'm a celebrity ...

So they've voted out Huggy Bear. "Huggy Bear ..." I ask you, what's that all about? His name is Antonio Fargas, call him that!!! As if Fran Cosgrove is a celebrity. It's like putting Bern in there and calling it I'm a celibate get me out of 'ere ...

Talking of Bern, he's back in the world of blogs ... Bern's Blag

It's only been a couple of months Bats ... come on.

I've got to pop out at lunch time to get the boss a kilo of muscles. He's got a dinner party tomorrow and interviewing today. Oh the life I live.

It seems like they are letting Big Ron back on the box next week. He's in the paper today spouting that the public want him back. Yeah, I'm sure they do Ron. Oh and the old Spudz boss Martin Jol has offered an Olive branch to Palarse manager over the fact that he said Dowie was not fir enough to mend my shoelaces. He then comes out and says in Holland it has a different meaning. Yep it does in Sarf Landan as well Mart. Oh and talking about da Spudz, how funny was that Fredi Kanoute handball. Luckily our Martin has also forgiven Fredi ...

I'm going to have to do some Christmas shopping. It's a bleedin chore. Can I actually face Bluewater this saturday?? No sod that ...

My tune of the day: If I work my thing on you - Ann Sexton

Strange games and tings ...

So organise a Christmas party I am told. Typical, left to the last minute everythings booked. I did it last year in early November, it all went off a treat. But I've been away for most of Nov so it got left. My fault, typical though ...

I spent last night not waiting for a phone call, but watching the UManU/ Arsenal kids and stiffs. It was quite a good game ... and I kid you not that they would give our first team lot a good run around. The nearer Sunday comes the more I'm dreading it. They're now advertising it on Sky, so there's no escaping.

I must check the Charlton website about 5/6 times a day. Mostly out of habit but sometimes it's quite reassuringly funny. Well they've recently put up an article about the proposed ground development. This was then followed a few days later by news that Premier League attendances are falling. All very leftfield in my book, but what do I know. I actually laughed when reading All Quiet when the Inspector said that they can bus people in from Thanet but can't put on a bus from the Dome where there is extensive parking facilities.

News from the Metro is that 3G phones are not worth the money. Hmmm ... they say that the network is too limited, agreed, the problem is bad away from towns and cities, agreed, and the cost is about £160 a phone, HELLO!!! Well I got my "3" phone free and a 12 month deal for 750 minutes a month for £17.50. Work that one out ...

My tune of the day: Time 2 Say - D'Nell

Blogger, blogger ... blogger

Well I haven't been experiencing any problems with Blogger. Not like quite a few other people including All quiet. What's all the trouble I was asking myself? Until I tried to log on this morning. Error it told me ... and continued to tell me until about 10 minutes ago.

Oh well ... there she blows.

It's been one of those days. The first of December.Twenty five days before Christmas, four days before the twelth anniversary of the return to the Valley. Oh how time flies!!! It's been the coldest day for me so far. Bloody freezing. But it is winter. I need some warming up. I think that sort of thing gets me into trouble.

There's not a lot of Charlton activity today, apart from us being linked with the leading goalscorer in Argentina. Yeah right. I can see it now. Some poor sod from Bueros Aires who usually strolls round, scoring all his teams goals coming to the Valley. Being asked to track back, defend at corners ... travel 13 hours for internationals. Yea right, you get me. We'd be better off going to get Dean Ashton.

The boy Mooney is going to a fancy dress party tonight. The theme is Madonna. So you've guessed it, no tweed for him ... NO. A curly wig, a fat belly, a pile of coke and a Bocca Juniors top. Work that one out yourself.

Oh and my ironing fest was remarkable last night. About three hours of creases.

My tune of the day: People make the world go round - Carl Craig

After the Lord Mayors show ...

Well the dust has settled but I'm still smarting from Saturdays match. A complete lack of direction is what I'm now feeling. But it was summed up in an email to the CAFC list by Richard Hunt. It actually captures most of what I was feeling, and I hope he doesn't mind if I reprint it here. I'm not going to try and pass the thoughts off as mine, but it's definately how I was feeling ...

" After 72 hours ... to recover from travelling all that way to see such a mauling, (Richard travels from the Czech Republic) I am more than ever convinced that we should seriously try to get Parker back.

When I compare Saturday to last Boxing Day the difference was that then we had three Charlton players who took to the field believing they were every bit as good as the Chelsea players: Parker, di Canio and Jensen. Those three inspired the rest. On Saturday I didnt see that from anyone (with the exception of the Elk in the first half, and Thomas before he was clattered by Terry, in a challenge every bit as bad as Koncheskys red card job against Chelsea two years ago ). Steve Brown said afterwards on GLR that after the third goal "the body language was dreadful". Danny Murphy is a good player whose confidence is shot to pieces. Matt Holland does a lot of good work that we rarely notice, but as somebody mentioned to me on Saturday, his nickname at Ipswich was Mr CleanShorts, and his disciplinary record is almost too good for a central midfielder. Parker got his shorts dirty, and drove at the Chelsea defence too. Neither Holland nor Murphy managed that at all.
We were noted for being the team that respected nobody and had a go at all. We have completely lost that. Somebody mentioned that we were in their faces for ten minutes. Were we hell. It took more than a minute before we even touched the ball. We lost that kind of self belief the moment we lost Parker. Of the new signings, what Murphy, Jeffers, Rommedahl and Hughes have in common is that none of them seem to believe they deserve a place in a top Premiership starting line up. In Hughes case, he is probably right, with the other three, I don't know.
Rommedahl did some deeply unimpressive things when he came on, but he also set off on a run which everyone else just stood still and admired.

We seem to have no idea what to do with him, what formation he fits into. That cannot be all his fault."

There you go. There's no point in dwelling on that ONE match but it did show the general direction we have gone in a year. Well in a little bit less than a year to be honest and it's not good.

I finally got the car jump started last night. If I was a car I wouldn't start on cold nights either. And I nearly got in and embarked on a 3 hour journey. I say nearly ... I mean nearly but I think I would have got in trouble.

I'm planning on doing about 3 hours of ironing tonight. The pile is getting bigger and bigger ... Oh I do live on the edge.

My tune of the day: Till I found U - Jasper Street Co

Party pics ...

Right I said that I would put them up on the site and I have. Now if they can view them in Brazil they'll hold another party. It was Isabelas 10th birthday party, and it rocked, as good as any tenth birthday party could.

Carla, Priscilla, Larissa, Isabela, Karinhe, Julliana, Anna ...

My guess is as good as yours ...

Priscilla, Larissa, Veeto, Karinhe, Julliana, Jason, Carla, Johhny, Marriana, Vitoria, Feeama, Anna, Fatima, Edson and Tom ... in no particular order

Run Wabbitt ...

So the Run London 10km run has come and gone. I got as far as moving off of the setee, holding up the illuminated top so see if it glowed and then lying back down. Sod that I though ...

So shall I talk about Charlton? Shall I try to be as optimistic as I was on Friday? Should I try to work out what Danny Murphy's role in the team is? Should I bollox ...

Yes, yes ... Charlton weren't good, Chelsea were ... but I could always say that Charlton would play with a bit of passion, even if they couldn't string three passes together. Passion never reared it's ugly head on Saturday. Forgive me if I'm wrong but I've seen some pretty dire Charlton performances over the years. This wasn't one of them but when you add up the collective wages/money paid for the individual against the team output must come right at the top for worst performances. The programme, whoops matchday magazine has been doing a top ten performance list match on match and on Saturday reminded us of the 4-3 victory at Villa back in 99, when Brown-eye went in goal and Dandy Mills scored that winner with a minute to go. That was the match when I was dressed as a Pearly King and Tim Chick buggered up his knee. Anyway what would we have given for that team performance on Saturday. Mark Kinsella in midfield, Clive Mendonca up front. What we got was Danny Murphy strolling around in the middle of the park, refusing to run or close down his man and Shaun Bartlett so isolated up front it wasn't funny. Yes, match report after match report tells us how good Chels were, even AQITES tell us how Chel will win the league, but what I don't get is how people have had the audacity to question Jason Euells ability, commitment when Murphy is still in the team. I say get him out now, I'll actually volunteer to drive his back up North, as long as he keeps his mouth shut, put Euell in the centre of midfield, get Rommadhal playing of the wing, get Franny up with Bartlett and go find a decent, pacy centre half. Now that's not too hard is it. It's lucky that Norwich and West Brom are so bad, otherwise we may be in trouble. A forty thousand capacity stadium my ass.

I watched "A Day after tomorrow" yesterday. It was a great Sunday morning film, big sweeping special effects shots and a good, basic plot. If you're looking for an easy going film then this is the one. Or you could go and see the new Bridget Jones flick. It may even make you propose to your gal, or even a random gal. Go on you know you want to.

Well, I've definitely got the holiday blues at the moment. It's all too dark for me ... dark in the morning, dark at night ... what's that all about??? I need another break, okay maybe not a break, I just need to chill ...

I've decided not to go to Palarse on Sunday. I'm going to keep my £35 firmly in my pocket. I'm going to watch on Sky, shout at the inept performance, moan when we lose and then feel better that I'm not out of pocket.

I'm thinking of shaving off my hair. Zip it off and start again ... come on

My tune of the day: Shifting gears - Johhny Hammond

Sunny Delight ...

No not that pseudo-orange/ vegetable oil drink but outside. It's sunny. It's the first time I've seen the sun in months. Well not totally true, but in this country at least.

It's football tomorrow. I actually can't wait. To see Fortune get the run around from Gudjonson, and Kishishev from Lampard, what more would I want. I may have to wear my lucky pants. Hang on, I actually don't own a pair ...

I was meant to be doing that Run London 10km thingy on Sunday. I entered and then forgot about it. But it's just dawned on me how serious this thing is meant to be. I've done no actual training either ... which is fun, so I think I could run about 6-7km before I hit the wall. Then what??? Wabbling all around Bermondsey, not a pretty sight. So sod it. I think i'll stay in the warmth of my front room and watch the Liverpool/ Arse match.

The Southend gal ... well Shoeburyness really is pregnant. She's just told me. Congratulations I say, and I mean it, but that would be the 3 or 4th time wouldn't it?? But what do I know!!!!

I'm not sure if I have said congratulations to Graeme and Nicky on the birth of Tabitha. I know it was a bit hairy, but it would be if you had a monkey ... boom, boom. No, seriously congratulations, and isn't it about time Kev sowed his seed, just to prove he ain't a jaffa!!!!!

I'm still trying to download some of the Brasil pics, and waiting on a few multimedia messages to arrive so I can post the pictures. The ones of Isabellas tenth bithday party are quality.

My tune of the day: It's great to be here - Jackson 5

Preparing for the party ... and when I say party I mean party. Tom and myself rock in the kitchen ...  

Well I finally downlaoded a pic ... it's the view from my bedroom window in Vigigal. Note the Sheraton Hotel on the right hand side, thats where UManU stayed when they played in the World Club Championship a few years back ... 

Return of the Prodigal Son ...

Well, I'm back in work mode, seriously pished at the cold weather and looking forward to his return on Saturday. Whether he'll play or be on the bench god only knows, well that what Jose calls himself ... but who am I to argue.

Charlton v Chelsea is always a fixture I look forward to. I have a few Chels mates and it was always good putting them in their place. But what now? Now they have all the benjamins, the moolah, louies, rubles ... what now??? Well we have JJ and Kish, come on you know they can do it.

Before I left to go to Brazil I complained one last time to three about the shite phone I had. And would you believe it they changed they model. They gave me an LG thingy, that bleeps every time you do something. But it works. I was on the phone for about 45 mins last night and it didn't drop the call once. Well I lie, but I dropped the phone so that don't count. So if you need to complain do it long and hard. Keep on complaining because eventually you will get what you want.

I'm considering getting a cleaner. I just can't be bothered to do it myself. Is that a bit extravagant? The flat is a tip, and I just sit down and do nothing. At least if I had someone coming round to do it I might make an effort, I wouldn't want them thinking I was a lazy, helpless git would I!!!!

Oh an Welling United are off the bottom of the league. They've actually won a couple of matches, whooopeeee. But they did lose to Dartford in the Kent Cup, somethings never change.

I'm trying to download some more pics of the Brazil trip. But I'm not too sure how many peeps would want to see me thonged up on the beach. They are great shots though.

It's a month to go before Christmas. I was speaking to someone yesterday who had just put their decorations up. Is that a bit too soon? Isn't it a bit tacky to do that? I usually do it a couple of weeks before the day, and take them down just in the new year. Seems about right to me. But then again ... who am I to complain. Northerners eh ...

Come on Charlton ... we gotta take those Russians to the cleaners this week. Make him eat his giant truffle ... come on lets stuff it up em' ...

My tune of the day: Love's on time - Barbara Tucker

Now this is what you call a bar !!!! Can you spot the fridge ... ?

Back in blighty ....

Mengo v Fogo ... and Curbo thinks he's got it hard!!!!!

Well that's it. Nearly three weeks to debauchery finished. No email, no blogging, no racist chanting ... blimey, what's that all about. I can totally understand Ronnie Biggs. It's all a bit weird really. Having spent a quality weekend at Southport then rushing home to pack and setting of to Brasil. I didn't have time to think about a 13 hour flight, or how wasted I actually was, or who I might miss ... well there were certain people of course. But now I'm back and it all seems like a thousand years ago.

I was staying on the outskirts of Vigigal. One of the flavelas close to Leblon and Ipanema. We actually walked into Vigigal and the truck load of Police to have breakfast each morning and where able to stand out on the balcony most evenings trying to place where the sound of the bullets where coming from. But it wasn't that bad.

We, being Timbo ... eventually Mushy and myself Hic, stayed in the White House overlooking the Sheraton.

It's quite mad how fitness conscious the Brazilians actually are, compared to the fat sods that were on my train this morning ... but maybe my holiday blues have kicked in.

My tune of the day: Wild Fire - John Holt

I'm back

Touched down ... Brasil, quality ... I'll be back on tomorrow.

Peace, love ...

My tune of the day: Betcha' wouldn't hurt me - Quincy Jones

Av it ...

Live and direct from Leblon, Rio. Four nil to the Addicks and I´m avin it large ...

Oh the wonders of the net ...

My tune of the day: Anything you damn well want

From the frying pan to the fire ...

Well Southport is safely filed away. Some great moments, 650 badges handed out ... some drink drunk ... a win for the boys at da LANE ...

Now onwards to South America ...

I'll see you in a few weeks.

My tune of the day: We had a thing - Abstract Truth

It's grim oop North ....

This is the third time Ive trid to load this ... so sod it.

My tune of the da: Sweet Tears - Roy Ayres

Four more years ...

No, they haven't given JJ an extended contract ... thank fcuk ... it's the bush that won it. Come on we all love bush.

Just took possession of my new MP3 player by Creative ... and it does what it says on the tin. Loads of music, loads of music. I doubt whether I'll be able to listen to all of them anyway.

I'm in holiday mode ... so I may be back on later, keep logging on.

My tune of the day: Weekend - Phreek

Addicked to your love ...

So the Addicks have done the right thing and let Michael Turner sign for Brentford. Now the lad can concentrate on carving out a career for himself. But they are still up in arms, some of the mailing list lot. We've let one of our best young lads just walk away, how can we let him go when we need a centre half. Oh please, Michael Turner wasn't the answer to our problems ... so just let the lad get a good contract at a club that he may be able to make an impression at.

I think my days of flirting with the Sun are at an end. Yes, I know I should never have have bought it in the start, just for what they did re the Hillsborough stuff. But today I think has taken the biscuit. And for once I'm stumped for words. It's the old Stan Collymore story. Yes, we all know what Stan is about, but I just don't get the utter contempt the Sun and the public have for him. I just don't get it. They continually go on about him being a woman beater. Yep, we'll tick that one off ... then there's the dogger issue, but that's all about consenting adults surely, then we have the Ireland fight. So Stan has a book out, his publicists wants maximum exposure ... Yes, we get that as well. But why the utter hate? Gazza, whoops sorry G8 wrote about his serial victimisation of his wife and he is a cheeky chappy. Those that know, know ... but I just don't get it.

Yep, I'm up North this weekend. It will be nice to see some of the people ... they know who they are, you get no name checks here.

I invested in the Soul Heaven presents Jazzy Jeff "In the House" CD yesterday. Quality. Starting with Papa was a Rollin Stone through to I got Rhythm, this has had me dancing around the office all day. Go get yourself some ... you know it makes sense.

My tune of the day: Let's start the dance - Hamilton Bohannon

Swing low ...

It was always on the cards wasn't it. Stan "The Van" and the Bath Rugby players. All out on the pish in Dublin, all slagging each other off. Do we really want to know, do we really care? It's the age old football vs rugby thingamy. You know Rugby, remember ... England won the World Cup last year, but nothing since. It's in all the papers ... Colly bragging about his exual conquests with Kirsty Gallacher ... you would though, wouldn't you?

This getting dark in the evenings thing really takes the buscuit. I left work last night, it was dark, it was raining and I didn't have a smile on my face. In fact it does put you on a right downer. Well, I've shaken out all the cobwebs, brushed myself down ... and I'm looking good. I might even be going on holiday.

The young reserves drew with Pompey last night. Word is that although we looked accomplished we had no cutting edge. I have heard that somewhere before ... cutting edge, don't make me laugh. One of the Tottenham boys I know will be out of rehab for Saturdays game ... I was going to suggest I meet him in the pub, unfortunately I am up north ... shame eh!!!!

Talking of going up North. I found a pair of trousers/ Jeans in the cupboard that I had forgotten I had. Pink and black stripes ... which I'll wear with a pair of winkle pickers, but what can I wear up top? A black shirt maybe, tuxedo jacket ... I'm not too sure at the moment.

I turned on GMTV this morning ... (Yes, I know) they were having a telephone poll re who do you want to win the American elections ... Bush or Kerry. I did sit there scratching my head. So who would be phoning a premium telephone line to register their preference. Not half the fools I say on "Britains Hardest Village" on Sky One last night. They would have had trouble using a phone.

Does anyone work at BP? Does anyone want to work at BP?

My tune of the day: Latin Lover - Maters at Work

Hair today .....

The receptionist has said my new haircut makes me look younger ... ya boo sucks ...

Everything comes to those that wait ...

That's my advise to the old shot shy Spurs forwards with their game coming up this weekend.

A piece of advise, take a look at Page 3 of the Sun today. Now you would, wouldn't you!!!!

So Bill Curbishley listens to Talk Sport, and he even phones it up. Well he did last night, when he called up defending his bro. He was banging on about trying to contain his anger. Charlton don't deserve him. Have I missed something here. Yes Curbs paid for things on his own credit card 10 years ago, but he now has a multi million pound contract. I wouldn't mind some of that ... and I wouldn't put Kishishev in midfield.

It was nice to hear from the Boustani last night. It seems like she has gone through the ringer, put dancing will be on the agenda come the weekend, you'd better get those dancing feet in gear.

I spent Sunday afternoon watching 3 episodes of Roots. Remember Roots ... if you don't I suggest you go watch it. If you do, well go watch it again. It's an unbelievable story, and although most of it isn't true ... well so what.

So, did anyone spend Saturday night watching Strictly Come dancing/ ballroom. I had a call from my Mum yesterday asking who had been voted out. She then went on to say that there was a lack of TV programmes for the older viewer, and she didn't want to watch Sex, drugs and rock n'roll. Fair point I thought, as I switched over to Men and Motors.

My cowboy boots arrived. They don't fit. So there we have the perils of ebay. Does anyone fit a size 8.5? Bern? Kev?

My tune of the day: Get another love - Chantel Curtis