retired_bxterror29

Sunday 23rd July 2006.

With no newspapers and an availability trawl that, until the season started, was proving to be pretty pointless I had arranged a late start for Allison and myself. Even although I arrived bang on time at 9.30 Allison, as usual, had beat me to it.

With no news or messages to pass on Allison and I just socialised until about ten minutes before the meeting was due to start when I moved to my office to get into work mode.

Ryan was the last to arrive full of apologies for being late and hoping that we had not been delayed unnecessarily. He then announced to all that they should ignore his presence as he was only here to observe. With that he moved the only spare chair from the arc around my desk and moved to the rear alongside Allison.

I was pleased with his remarks, which he didn’t have to make, and also with Allison’s presence of mind to arrange for the catering staff to supply the coffee. It would have been difficult for her to serve coffee to what was becoming a large group and to make notes at the same time

Once Ryan was settled I began, “Good Morning everybody.” “As you all know the purpose of today’s meeting is to assess our squad deciding in the process who we should retain and who to let go.” Smiling I continued “I know that a good case could be made for releasing everybody but we have to be realistic here.” “We need at least sixteen players to fulfil our commitments and I see no gain in replacing a bad or unskilled player with an amateur of a lower standard.” “The object is to at least maintain our current levels and, with the introduction of new players, hopefully improve on it.”

“You have a list of all our players divided by squad giving such details as status, contract, appearances, etc. etc.” “I’d like to start with the First Team and in particular Steve Sinclair.” “He’s transfer listed at his own request and has not been on the pitch for any of our friendly games, in fact he never made the bench in the last three.”

“Comments?”

Gary: “As it happens he is a nice guy.” “Very willing to help out with the younger lads in training and a good trainer himself.” “Unfortunately his skills have deteriorated fast in the past year and given that he is 36 years old I don’t see any future for him with us.”

“Anybody else?” “Anybody disagree?”

“OK, unanimous then.” “I’ll allow Sinclair to see out his contract, move him to the reserve squad, offer him to all clubs as a free transfer, and I’ll talk to him at training tomorrow night.” “He’s a veteran so there is no need to call him to the office.”

“Still looking at the First Team I’d like to keep McMullen as he is about the only player we have who is Third Division standard, and, purely on potential Irving.”

Ian: “I think we would all agree on McMullen,” and perceiving nods of agreement all round continued with, “but Irving will need games to fulfil his potential and he won’t get them sitting on the bench understudying our new keeper.”

“I hadn’t intended that he would Ian.” “What I propose is to promote to the first team the best of our other keepers to act as cover for West, and move Irving to the Reserves where he will get more games than he ever would as a bench sitter for the first team. “In the event of any injury or suspension involving West then we just pluck Irving out of the reserves into the first team.”

Ian: “That could work Boss provided Irving accepts the demotion.”

“I don’t see why he shouldn’t.” “But that’s my job to convince him that it is the right thing to do and that it is all for his benefit.”

“So are we all agreed?”

A confirmatory chorus answered my question.

OK then, looking at the rest of the squad I only want to hear about any player that you believe will never, or certainly not by Christmas, attain an acceptable standard.”

Carl: “While we’ve been here I crossed those that I think are candidates for the transfer list.” “They are DRC Derek Harvey, MC/FC Kieran Dier, MC Bryan Cameron, DC Keith Campbell, AMR Rod Wallace, DC Jon McLeod and DL Alan Ritchie.”

“Under the ‘ready by Christmas criteria’, I have my doubts about DC Craig Cairns and DR Mark Walker even although they have performed adequately during games.”

Dean: “I’m not in a position to comment on Gary’s list only to say that if we release Cairns and Walker as well as the others we will be very short on natural defenders.”

Ian: “I agree with Dean on that one, but I also subscribe to Gary’s first list.” “I don’t think any of them will make it at all let alone by Christmas.”

“Gary I think we can agree on the names included in your list.” “They are, more or less, the same ones I would have selected.” “However I have to bow to Dean’s concerns regarding Cairns and Walker.” “I will however talk to them at the same time as the others but only in terms of a wake up call.” “We will be having a contract review session prior to Christmas when we will obviously look at them again.” “As for the others, Reserve team, Transfer List, and offer to all clubs.” “Until such time as all our reinforcements are bedded in I’ll probably have to use some of them in First Team duties but that can’t be avoided.”

“Anybody disagree?” “Unanimous as before then.”

“Allison I assume that you have all those names in your notes?”

“Yes Jim.”

“Good then will you arrange for an invitation to be placed in each of their lockers to attend my office on, say, Tuesday afternoon , at any time between three and seven?”

“This is a good time to have a break.” “Any coffee going Allison?”

At that she popped her head round the door giving instructions to whomever and drifting back to her seat began talking amicably to Ryan. I confined my chat to the staff as we enjoyed the break and the back and forth banter.

I allowed the cups to be filled and then half emptied before getting back to the business in hand.

“Alright gents settle down, time marches on, and let’s get the job done.”

“We are now looking at only our Under 19s Squad and I think the first order of business is to decide which goalkeeper we are promoting as back up to West.” “Your department I think Looney?”

“Yeah I was afraid you were going to ask me that.” “It’s a case of any one from two.” “The good news is that both had their 16th birthday last month so either will be eligible to play in competitive games.” Unfortunately that’s about as good as it gets.” They are both of a similar standard with McKeown marginally better than Fridge.” “But that standard is way below the minimum requirements of even our under 19s squad.” “McKeown has absolutely no potential to improve what so ever and while Fridge does have some he will never reach Third Division standard.”

“To be perfectly honest Boss if it weren’t for the circumstances both would be my candidates for immediate release.”

“Ouch! That hurts.”

“Yeah sorry Boss.”

“No need to apologise Looney it’s not your fault.”

I allowed the silence to reign for a few moments then asked if anyone had any suggestions.

Looney: “I’ve got one Boss but it is a bit of a risk.” “Promote McKeown he’s marginally better at the moment and let Fridge get some games in with the under 19s.” “Hopefully Fridge will begin to improve and when he is better than McKeown we swap them until Carl or Jim Smyth, when he gets here, can come up with a decent keeper.”

“The risk is that the longer McKeown or Fridge is on our bench the more likely they are to be called upon.” “Even if it is only for a ten minute spell that could cost us that game.”

”Thanks Looney.” “Anyone got any comments?”

Gary: “Well Boss the ultimate decision has to be yours as you are the guy that’ll get in the neck if we do lose because of a dodgy keeper.” “Having said that I don’t really see that I have much alternative but to go with Looney’s plan not if we want to bring Irving along quicker than he would sitting on the bench.”

“Thanks Gary – one thing I am not going to do is start any game with no back up keeper on the bench.” “Too many managers have made that mistake.”

“OK Looney’s plan it is.” “You break the news Looney I see no point in worrying either of them with a call to the office.”

“Ian you’re the Youth Coach what are your thoughts on the squad?”

“Right Boss.” “I believe we can safely release DC Derek Arbuckle, DC John Paul Bain, MC Joe Clark, MC Allan Henderson, MC Chris Stevenson, AMR Michael Weir, AML Scott Colquhoun, ST Christopher Black, ST Paul McGowan and ST Neal McManus.” “It would have been easier to list those we should keep.” “I know that it is a lot of players but some of them, notably Bain and Black have no potential at all, and the others are not likely to improve all that much.”

“That’s quiet a list Gary.” “Virtually the whole squad!”

“Afraid so Boss.”

“Anyone got any input here?”

Gary: “I am happy to concede that I am not as familiar with the squad as Ian may be, but I can not object to a single name on his list.” “I can’t see any of them ever reaching an acceptable standard.”

Looney: “Me too Boss.”

“Well I guess that settles it then.” “Allison, the same invitation to those guys as to the others.”

“Yes Jim.”

“I think we’ve covered everything we set out to do.” “Looney if you can magic a decent keeper out of all those amateurs I’d appreciate it?”

“Doubtful Boss.”

“Anybody got anything for me no matter how far off topic?”

“OK gent’s thanks for the input.” “A good morning’s work I think.” “Off you go and do what best benefits the club.” “I’ll see you all tomorrow night if not before.”

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retired_bxterror29

Sunday 23rd July 2006.

Once the office had been restored to something resembling normality Ryan sat opposite my desk with Allison in her customary position at the rear.

“In all my time here Jim that is the first time I have actually witnessed a manager and coach’s in action deciding the futures of our players.” “I have to say that I was impressed with the decisive nature of the proceedings.”

“Unfortunately it is a process we have to go through about twice in every season.”

“Unfortunately?”

“Yes.” “It’s not so bad when dealing with senior players but it is difficult when you get to the under 19s.” “Most people see an under 19s squad as being made up of reasonably mature, almost completely physically developed, 18 year olds.” “The reality is that the majority are much younger kids of 15 or 16 years old.” “I have even had a couple of 14 year olds in one squad.” “Life is difficult enough for them as their body chemistry is all screwed up and they are practically moving up one boot size on a weekly basis.” “Hell most of them still suffer from spotty faces.” “Those kids have only one dream and that is to pull on a Scotland shirt, lead the team out at Hampden Park to play Brazil in a World Cup Final, and maybe even score the winning goal.” “I’m the guy who has to tell them that the part time job shelf stacking at Tesco’s to supplement their income is their new career.”

“You must find that very difficult Jim.”

“It’s one of the hardest things a manager has to do and nobody looks forward to it, but it has to be done.”

“By the way I have been approached by The Montrose Globe for a one to one interview with them.” “Do you have any problems with that?”

“None at all Jim, I think I know you well enough to know that you will stick to football matters and leave the politics to us old fogy’s.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence Ryan.” “Anyway enough of my problems what’s on your mind Chairman.”

“Well since the board meeting I have been quietly enquiring about the activities of Stevie McKeown and people’s opinion of him as a Director of Football.” “Without going into too much detail it appears that I made a mistake in hiring him.” “Unfortunately he is not that easy to remove.” “He is sticking to his guns and refuses point blank to even consider any amendment to his existing contract.”

“One thing I have to ask Jim before carrying on and I think I know the answer already, is there any way you could work with the man in future?”

“Chairman I don’t mind working with the guy but not in football matters.” “I told you that this could be a deal breaker and I meant it.” “With or without the assistance of a Director of Football if the club does not meet your expectations at the end of the season then it is the Manager that goes, never the Director of Football, at least if I fail I will have dug my own grave with no ‘help’ from anybody else.”

“Exactly what I thought you would say Jim and, for what it is worth, I don’t think you will fail.”

“That will mean a slight alteration to your contract.” “We will have to remove the 4 month deadline passage.”

“That’s OK by me.”

Silence reigned for a few moments as Ryan gathered his thoughts.

“Jim if you imagine this club to be like a Christmas Tree I am the fairy or the shining star at the top of the tree, which one people see depends upon their perception of me, and as such all I do is supervise the goings on in the club, settle disputes, decide where money is spent and where not.” “I like to think that I am pretty fair in my dealings with everybody in any given situation.”

“I have discussed the matter of Stevie with all the other Directors both individually and collectively and have decided on the following course of action.” “What I am about to say will never come up at a board meeting it is to be construed as merely a ‘slight’ reorganisation of responsibilities initiated by me as being in the best interests of the club.”

“With immediate effect Garry Kerr is solely responsible for Financial Affairs at the club it is what he is good at.” “He has his own Accountancy Company in town and is well thought of within the financial community.”

“All Garry’s other responsibilities, which in the main are Staff Administration and Contracts, will be transferred to Dave McMillan and I have asked Garry to set Dave a reasonable budget for that purpose.”

“Some of Dave’s minor functions I am moving to Barry MacKay purely to lighten Dave’s load a bit.” “Unfortunately Barry is not in the best of health but he assures me that he is more than capable and certainly willing to pull his weight for the club.”

“As Dave has completed all the current player and football staff contracts I am moving that responsibility to you.” “You already have a budget in place and probably will know better than anybody any player’s worth to the club.” “That again is effective immediately.” “This will include accommodation requirements and all lists will be transferred to you tomorrow morning.” “I realise that this will be an additional load for you and Allison but, before you ask, there will be no pay rises.” “I’ve been caught once and I don’t intend to be caught again.”

We all smiled at his last comment.

“I don’t mind the added responsibility it is after all a situation that exists in most clubs – with or without a Direct of Football.” “Pity about the pay rise though.” “That OK with you Allison?”

“Yes Chairman, Jim, I’m perfectly happy as I am thank you.”

“Well I’m glad that’s settled.” “Thank you both for your cooperation.” “One final thing, I am putting out a circular to all clubs listing the Directors, and you Jim, and their new responsibilities.” “Stevie McKeown’s name, nor that of the post of Director of Football, will not be on the list.” “Effectively he will be out of the loop, I’m afraid that assisting Andy Reid, your predecessor Jim, with contract negotiations is not enough to warrant his presence on my board.”

“I was not aware that he was even that involved in football affairs,” I said.

“Oh yes.” “I believe he was very involved with all the contracts we negotiated throughout last season.”

“Oh,” I said.

Ryan looked at me carefully for a moment or two then said “OK Jim, spit it out, what’s up?”

“Did you know that transfer listed, shortly to be offered to all clubs, Steve Sinclair is on a part time £500 per week with a £50 appearance and £130 win bonuses until June next year?”

“What!” “No I bloody did not!”

“While that alone is good enough reason to move him on I was glad that we are doing so for purely football reasons.” “I could offer him a more realistic contract but I doubt very much that he would accept it.” “I wouldn’t in his shoes.”

“Why on earth would Stevie and Andy offer him such a ridiculous deal?”

“I can’t, and won’t, say that it is the case here but one English club I played for experienced a similar case where their Director of Football signed three players to contracts paying way above their value or worth to the club.” “At a farewell party for somebody one of the players had a bit too much to drink and let the cat out of the bag.” “It transpired that all three were ‘kicking back’ a fair portion of their wage straight into the Director’s pocket.” “I repeat I’m not saying that is the case here but if it were, without a similar confession, you will have a hard job proving it.”

“I hope he is the only one?”

“I’m afraid not Chairman, I would certainly question the wages of Thomas, Wardlaw and Donald.” “I also have some doubt about Cheyne’s deal even although he is of a lot more value to us than the others.”

“Good God.” Ryan was clearly shocked and accepted my suggestion of coffee which Allison duly prepared.

We just sat in silence drinking allowing Ryan to assimilate my theory and to calm down. As I said he was quite upset.

At last he spoke, “Thanks for your thoughts Jim and I accept them in the spirit they were intended.” “It will indeed be a very difficult thing to prove.” “I don’t suppose you have any parties planned?”

At least his sense of humour was returning.

With that he departed wishing me luck on Tuesday afternoon adding that he didn’t envy me my task.

Allison and I decided to lunch at the club before going our separate ways. During lunch she asked me if I really thought Stevie was a crook.

“I can’t honestly say Allison.” “What I do know is that as the Director of Football he was very lax in his duties to the club in allowing those contracts to be processed.” “Either he didn’t care, in which case he is here under false pretences, or he had another agenda.” “From there to kick backs is not a very big step.” “While most people within the game are pretty honest there is always the odd one here and there looking to line their own pockets, and I’m afraid that situation exists mainly in lower level clubs like ours.” “By the time positions at larger clubs are taken most of the ‘bad boys’ have been weeded out.”

“So much for football being a sport Jim.”

“Well the game is a sport but the majority of Football Clubs are run as businesses and that tends to limit the sporting aspects of the game.” “At our level most Owners/Chairmen are in it because they love the game or the club they are involved with.” “At higher levels most are looking to make money either for themselves or their shareholders.” “That’s just the way it is I’m afraid.”

At that we reverted to social chat until I wished her good bye and wandered off to the treatment room and the pitch.

Standing at the entrance to the tunnel I surveyed what appeared to be a full squad carrying out various drills under their respective coaches. Considering that Sunday was meant to be a treatment only day I had to admire the willingness of both staff and players.

I noticed Bryan Cameron lounging in the dugout soaking up the sun with his shirt off and sporting a nasty looking bruise to his lower right chest.

“That seems to be coming out OK.”

“Yes Boss, I should be fit by the end of the week.”

“Well don’t rush it; there is plenty of time to recover before our next match.”

I left him to his sunbathing and wandered off. I was particularly aware that I had been speaking to a candidate for release.

“God, sometimes I hate this job.”

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retired_bxterror29

Monday 24th July 2006.

As I sat drinking Allison’s coffee I mentally changed my mind in that perhaps I did like the job after all. I decided that there were certain aspects that I would never be comfortable with. Nothing is perfect I thought.

The only thing of note in today’s newspapers was the total absence of reporting on our new staff in The Today. Either our press release was very late or they had decided that old news is no news. Whatever the reason I was not perturbed.

The rest of the day was pretty much routine apart from the arrival of the Player’s Contracts and Places of Residence files in the morning. Both disappeared quickly into Allison’s filing system.

One highlight of the afternoon was Sandra arriving with my new contract. Both girls chatted happily away while I read it and seeing nothing unexpected signed off on it straight away. I did have a niggling thought about talking it over with Georgina but decided that under the circumstances there was no need.

Allison later informed me that there had been no response to our ads for Staff. As we had filled our immediate needs I told her to kill the ads.

Prior to wishing her good night I reminded Allison of the dastardly deeds I had to perform the following day. I suggested that she might like to bring in a couple of spare blouses and a large pack of Kleenex as I anticipated more than a few tears from the younger lads.

“Your not looking forward to this are you Jim?”

“Definitely not and the hard bit is that I have to face them all on the training pitch in about an hour or so pretending that nothing is wrong.”

“Would you like a coffee before I go?”

“Yes please Allison then I can sit down with it and think what I am going to say if anybody asks me about the invitations.”

About half an hour later I was still none the wiser and decided the best course was just to wing it depending what came up. I changed into my track suit and boots and went downstairs to the dressing room.

Chatting with the staff I outlined my plans for this, and future, training sessions while we waited for the players to arrive and get changed. You could not help but notice the curiosity, and some alarm, from the recipients of the invitations.

Once everybody was settled I walked to the front next to a chalk board and outlined the format of training sessions from now on. I didn’t want to do it but I had to ask.

“Any questions?”

“Yes Boss, can you tell us why some of us are being called to your office tomorrow?”

This from 16 year old John Paul Bain.

“Well the staff and I had a meeting yesterday during which we reviewed each and every one of you with regard to where you would be best suited to be placed in order to get in as much game time as possible.” “Some of you are currently in the first team squad and are unlikely to get as many games in as we would like and a similar situation exists in the under 19s squad.” “So we are having a bit of a shuffle round and on Wednesday evenings training session you will be in three squads.”

“Some of you might see this as a promotion or demotion it is nothing of the kind.” “You are simply being better placed for your benefit and ultimately for that of the club.”

“One thing I can say is that nobody will be signing on to the dole on Wednesday.”

That prompted a couple of raised eyebrows among the staff and not a few sighs of relief among some players.

“While on the subject I do not want you all crowding into my PA's office with your lewd comments, dirty jokes, and pretending to tie your laces in an attempt to see up her skirt.” “Just form an orderly queue in the corridor and Allison will call you in one at a time.” “Some guys might be in for a few minutes others for a bit longer.” “Just be patient and you will all be seen and listened too.”

“Everybody happy with that?”

A chorus of Yes Boss solved that problem.

Using the board I then began to explain the subtle difference between the counter attacking 4-4-2 formation played both with and without attacking wingers. Most guys seemed to get it first time but I ran through it again for the benefit of the mystified.

“OK guys after the training circus we will practice that in a game of no contact football.”

On the field we split into more or less four even numbered groups and just moved form coach to coach. When a group got to Looney they practised penalties, corners and free kicks against each of our keepers.

I attached myself to Billy Robinson and stayed with him managing to get rid of a few pounds in the process. By the end of the session I was well and truly knackered and vowing to keep this up until I was fit again. Those Scottish Breakfasts are murder on your waistline.

Considering it was the first time we had practised the tactic I was reasonably pleased with the display. The hard bit was reigning in Colquhoun and Weir when they were on the field as attacking wingers. They just played their normal game and seemed oblivious to any shouted instructions. No rest for the wicked I thought.

After training in the pub with the staff Billy queried my ‘nobody on the dole on Wednesday’ statement.

“It occurred to me as I was speaking.” “It’s no big deal to keep them on the books for a couple of weeks or so to see what, if any, interest they arouse in the transfer market.” “It also gives the player time to shop himself around the local non-league clubs.” “With luck it will also ensure that they all get a good night’s sleep tonight.”

“Good thinking Boss but I still don’t envy you your task.”

“You and me both, Billy.”

retired_bxterror29

Tuesday 25th July 2006.

With nothing significant in the newspapers and no overnight news from Allison I settled myself down to a routine morning followed by a distressing afternoon. I explained to Allison my ‘fortnight’s grace’ which might make things a bit easier on both of us. I had my doubts though.

Around ten Allison ushered in Jim Smyth and I was pleased to see the genial, fishing crazy, Irishman. I managed to steer the conversation away from fishing and eventually told Jim what I wanted from him.

“I need players of proven ability preferably less than 30 years old of at least the same standard but hopefully a better calibre than our current crop.” “It’s not going to be easy as our reputation is rubbish at the moment and the Board will not allow us to scout outside of Scotland.”

“Unfortunately our next game is a Reserve fixture on Saturday with no first team game until the following week.” “I can’t afford to have you sitting around twiddling your thumbs for that length of time.” “We have a training session tomorrow evening which will give you a chance to see what we have – and that’s not much I can tell you.”

“OK Boss I’ll have a look at what we have tomorrow evening then hit the road on Thursday.”

“Excellent Jim good to have you on board.”

After Jim left I had to prepare my speeches for this afternoon.

It was not until after lunch that I was fairy satisfied with what I had to say. The ‘wake up’ call was the easiest of all it was simply a case of ‘we think you can do better’ and that if nothing improved between now and Christmas we would have no choice but to let them go.

The older players didn’t present too much of a problem either as they were not good enough to retain and we could see no signs of imminent improvement. As promised the previous evening though nobody would leave immediately. They would be transfer listed and offered to clubs and moved to our reserve squad. If no interest was shown after two weeks we would probably let them go.

Apart from moving to the reserve squad the sixteen year olds would be told pretty much the same but retained in the under 19s squad.

The fifteen year old guys couldn’t be offered to other clubs due to their age but apart from that it was pretty much as per the other under 19 players.

That then was the plan and the only alteration would be the tone of voice I used depending upon who I was addressing.

Irving was a special case and, at twenty years old, I figured he would be mature enough to accept that what I was proposing was for his own good.

About ten to three Allison came in with coffee.

“Any Brandy in that?” I asked.

“No but I can hear movement and voices from the corridor so it seems they are queuing up already.”

“Give me a couple of minutes Allison then wheel them in.” “No rest for the wicked it would appear.”

Thankfully Walker was first through the door. An easy start I thought. He got the ‘wake up’ speech which he seemed to accept and left thanking me for the chance to prove his worth.

Harvey, Dair and Cameron were next and each accepted the decision to list them with virtually no comment.

Irving appeared and sat down with a calm expression on his face.

“Hello Paul, you will be aware that we had a goalkeeper on trial the other week, Steve West, well we have offered him a contract which he accepted.” “I think he joins us in a few days time.”

“Yes Boss.”

“He is in many respects a better keeper than you are at the moment, certainly in terms of experience, and will probably start the majority of our first team games.” “Which leaves us with the problem of how to continue your development if, as first team back up, you are sitting on the bench.”

“Yes Boss.”

“Obviously you will learn quicker by playing games therefore we will replace you in the first team with one of the under 19 keepers and put you in the reserve squad where you will at least be playing regularly.” “In the event of any injury or suspension to West you will of course be straight back into the first squad.”

“Sounds OK so far Boss, at least you are not releasing me.”

“The thought never entered our minds Paul.” “We will possibly sign another keeper purely as a better back up to West but you will still replace him if required.”

“I can see the benefit to me by playing regularly so whatever you want to do is OK by me.”

“Fine then Paul I’ll see you on the pitch tomorrow night.”

Next through the door were in turn Arbuckle, Weir and McManus. They all got the under 19 speech and while McManus had a bit of a lip tremble they seemed to accept it alright.

And so it went on with most seeming to accept the decision. The only one actually in tears when he left the office was young Henderson which prompted a longer gap than normal before the next player appeared.

Brian Kelly was the last one in about six thirty and he left with his eyes full of unshed tears. At least he’ll get a cuddle from Allison I thought.

After about fifteen minutes Allison appears with coffee for both of us.

“I thought you might appreciate the company Jim.”

“Yeah, what was it like for you?”

“Actually not as bad as I thought it would be.” “There were only three that needed ‘mothering’ and only one of them was inconsolable but I managed to get him out in a reasonable state.”

“Yeah I’m sorry to put you through all that.” “Part of the job I’m afraid.”

“That’s OK but I don’t think I’ll ever get used to it.”

“You and me both.”

retired_bxterror29

Wednesday 26th July 2006.

After a pretty routine day in the office I was almost glad to don a tracksuit and put myself through some punishing routines with Billy at training in the evening.

We started off with the same tactical talk as before but this time concentrating on the players who hadn’t quite got it yet. I doubt if some of them ever will.

About half way through a session I noticed Steve Sinclair on the sidelines nursing a knee. I strolled over and enquired what was wrong.

“Nothing really Boss just an old injury playing up a bit.” “I’ll be alright in a few minutes.”

“Yeah its funny how those old knocks keep coming back to remind you that they are still there.”

“I meant to talk to you on Monday evening regarding your status at the club but it just went completely out of my mind.” “I do apologise.”

“No need to apologise Boss, I was expecting a letter in my locker like the others.” “I figured it wouldn’t be too long before you grabbed me.”

“Well Steve you know you are slowing down and losing some of your skills.” “It comes as the years roll by I’m afraid.” “You’re already on the transfer list but what we decided was a spell in the Reserve Squad and offering you to all clubs on a free transfer basis” “If nobody shows any interest we will just let you see out your contract.”

“Well thanks for that Boss, at my age I couldn’t ask for more.”

“No problem Steve, how are the Badge Courses going?”

“Oh I had to give them up.” “I just couldn’t concentrate on them.” “I might give them a go again later on.”

“Pity about that.” “What was the problem?”

“Well it is nothing to do with the club or you and the staff I just made a mistake signing on here and it has been gnawing at me ever since.”

“Anything I can do?”

“Not at the moment Boss.” “I have some serious thinking to do first.”

“Well if you change your mind you know where I am.”

With that I left him to it and returned to my punishment.

The no contact game that ended the session showed that some of the younger lads were dead set on playing their own game and at times it looked as though we were playing 4-2-4. Apart from ignoring any instructions I was not overly impressed with what I was seeing. I consoled myself with the thought that we had definitely made the right decision in letting them go.

Afterwards in the pub Jim Smyth summed it all up.

“Does this pub run a football team?” “They are bound to be better than our lot.”



Thursday 27th July 2006.

The local rags made interesting reading this morning for entirely different reasons.

The Globe ran a small piece on the appointment of Jim Smyth as our second scout. This included a biography and that papers best wishes in his hunt for talent. Can’t ask for more than that I thought.

The Today had a larger story entirely devoted to slating me again. Under the headline “Trouble at the Gable End?” they described player unhappiness at my methods ‘even to the extent of having a fifteen year old in tears’ at the manner in which I was treating him. They also reported some ‘discontent’ among some of the club directors.

While there certainly was some truth in their statements, you didn’t need to be a genius to figure out which director they were talking about, the whole presentation of the piece was entirely negative.

Not seeing anything in there about our new scout I took a small satisfaction from the fact that our press department was doing a good job in cutting off Today from the flow of information. That newspaper was the first to be deposited in the bin.

I wandered out to Allison.

“Any further contact with The Globe and their request for an interview?”

“Not so far Jim, do you want me to ring them?”

“No let them come to us if they are as small as you say they might have problems fitting me in.”

“It’s a bit early but do you fancy a coffee?”

“Good idea Allison.”

I sat there drinking the coffee and chatted socially with Allison. I found that I thoroughly enjoyed the break. You would think I didn’t have a care in the world. I wish.

After a leisurely lunch I sat in my office contemplating the events of the past few weeks since my appointment. Most of my external boxes were ticked apart from selling the flat in Irvine, my Solicitor paying any outstanding bills, me paying him, and the final closure of my bank account there. The latter I could do via the Montrose branch so there was no need for me to go to Irvine again.

Reflecting on my time at Irvine I concluded that there was a vast difference between being a Part Time Coach at a Part Time Club and a Full Time Manager at a Part Time club.

Here I had a lot of free time to think things over but there is a limit to what you can do in the time available. If we were a Full Time club I would have more time with the players and might even get them to understand the 4-4-2 Counter Attacking game. There were other tactics I wanted to familiarise them with but one thing at a time.

One niggling thought was that until I got some reports in from our scouts or after a few competitive games had been played there wasn’t much I could do about strengthening the squad. I was very aware that I would need some depth as well. So far we had been lucky on the training field in not sustaining any significant injuries but all that could easily alter when the season proper started.

As I was getting nowhere fast I decided to call it a day and left about four o’clock for the hotel.



Friday 28th July 2006.

An uneventful day was interrupted by a phone call form the Irvine Estate Agent. Since putting my flat on the market it appears that a bidding war had developed which had forced the price up to £145k. That had reduced the interested parties to three and he was awaiting calls form them over the weekend. He thought that only two o the three would stay in the race and, with a bit of luck, he thought I might get a sale price as high as £155k or £160k

I said that I didn’t really care what the final price was but, obviously the more the merrier. I was only concerned that there were no time wasters in the three.

“Don’t worry on that score Mr Thomson we have taken up Bank and Building Society references on all three and they passed with flying colours.” “It is just a question of how far they are prepared to go to secure the flat.”

I thanked him for the update and contemplated on my good fortune. While not in the millionaire class I would be, by most people’s standards, reasonably well off. If I can be successful here and move up the pay ladder a bit I would certainly add to my savings. With that comforting thought I returned to my routine day.

With a Reserve Fixture tomorrow training that evening was not routine. Dean waltzed off with his selected 16 to one end of the pitch while the rest of us worked our way round the circus. As was becoming my habit I stuck with Billy. Although I was beginning to feel some benefit it still hurt like hell.

Let’s be honest Jim I thought your getting too old for this.

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retired_bxterror29

Saturday 29th July 2006.

Before going down to breakfast I checked on my computer for any overnight messages. Not seeing any I wondered if Allison was in yet and decided to ring to check. Even she can’t be in this early I thought.

“Allison Grant.”

“Good God woman don’t you have a home to go to?”

“A very nice one thank you and good morning to you too.”

“Sorry Allison good morning to you.” “I haven’t even had breakfast yet.” “I just wanted to know what if anything was happening at the factory.”

“At this hour not a lot, the mail hasn’t even arrived yet.”

“Well I don’t plan on leaving the hotel until about ten then taking a slow stroll through the town before hitting the office round about lunch time” “Once you have done whatever needs to be done you might as well shoot off home or shopping – what ever takes your fancy.”

“Well actually I was planning on spending the day here and watching the match with you this afternoon.”

“That would be nice.” “I didn’t know you were a fan of the game.”

“Not a very knowledgeable one but I like to watch.”

“Well just don’t ask me to explain the offside rule.” “That remains one of life’s mysteries.”

“So I believe.”

“Dean is in charge today so I’ll probably watch the game from the Directors Box there should be enough room for you.” “If there isn’t I’ll make room.”

“Thank you kind sir.” “I’ll see you later on for lunch.”

“OK Goodbye Allison.”

After a leisurely breakfast I had coffee in the lounge browsing through the various newspapers. Once again Montrose was not on the journalistic map.

My thoughts drifted to Allison and our relationship. Most of the time she was all business and on those occasions there was definitely a ‘Hands Off’ warning sign being wielded. She did have a good sense of humour and then seemed to enjoy my company inviting more information about my life in which she seemed genuinely interested. At other times she was almost flirtatious with a look in her eyes that seemed to say ‘Go on I dare you’.

I decided that she was a little bit close to home at the moment admitting that I really did not understand all about women. What man does I asked myself?

Taking a rather torturous route to the office I managed to kill about an hour and a half discovering a good looking Tailors on the way. I could probably do with a couple of suits I thought so filed that one into the brain.

Arriving just before lunch I enquired if Allison knew anything about the tailor.

“He’s probably the best one in town, expensive but way above Burton’s etc.”

“That’ll do me.” “Anything happening here?”

“Not so far just junk mail this morning I’m afraid.” “I did ring Tom Boyle’s agent with a choice of addresses, he arrives tomorrow and wouldn’t find anybody here that could help in that department.”

“Good thinking Allison now let’s get some lunch those sea breezes work wonders for my appetite.”

Allison made lunch a light hearted affair what with wheedling information out of me about my past and a few confessions of her own. Apparently no man was big in her life at the moment ‘apart from the odd dinner date’ with a friend of long standing. She was fairly content with her life currently but supposed that she had ‘one good fling’ left in her. After her earlier experience she was a bit wary of getting married again but ‘one never knew’.

On my part she managed to extricate the fact that the nearest I got to marriage was a girl in Stafford that ‘shared my life’ for the best part of the time I was there. Fortunately I was old enough then to realise that as much as I enjoyed her company and as good as the sex was there was that certain something missing. When I became included in a part exchange deal I made no offer to her to join me or anything – I just allowed the affair to continue on as it was until I eventually moved on. We did share one or two phone calls afterwards but slowly but surely we cut all ties.

“Any regrets Jim?”

“I sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have a woman permanently around, maybe a couple of kids even, but I think we both made the right decision.” “We just were not ready to make that kind of commitment.” “At the moment though I am fairly content with my lot but, like you, ‘one never knows’.”

“You mean there is hope for us yet?” she said laughing.

With a grin I replied “Only if you tear up that hands off sign you occasionally wear.”

“Mmmm I’ll think about it.” She said with the ‘I dare you’ look in her eye.

“Well while you’re thinking about it I’ll have to go and pretend that I am the manager of this football club.” “I’ll have to talk to Dean before he gets them ready for the game and the dressing room is no place for a lady.” “You might see something you like better than me.”

“I doubt that - I’ve had my fill of young footballers.” “I’ll just sit here until you are ready to properly escort me.”

“OK see you later.”

In the dressing room I found a track suited Dean and Billy along with a few players still changing.

Hi Dean, Billy, any last minute hitches?”

Billy: “Provided they all turn up we are not anticipating any problems Boss.”

Dean: “The only problem I have is a personal one – I’m as nervous as a cat on a hot tin roof.”

“That’s only natural Dean it is after all your first real game in charge.” “Don’t worry about the result just learn from the experience.”

“Not just my first game in charge here Boss but my first game ever in charge.”

“You’ll be OK Dean.” “If you do get stuck I’m in the directors’ box on the end of the intercom.” “Never be afraid to seek advice Dean it’s all part of the learning curve.”

I didn’t mention that he was beating me to it by a week. I too had never been solely in charge before. I don’t think anybody realised that.

“Have you got a spare team sheet I can have Dean?”

“Yeah sure Boss.”

“Right I’ll be off then and let you guys do the work for once.”

An ironic ‘Cheers Boss’ greeted that remark.

Back in the lounge Allison was quietly sipping coffee.

“Hello Jim do we have time for another coffee?”

“Yeah stacks of time yet.” “Besides I want to study Dean’s team sheet.”

Considering what he had to work with I thought Dean had done a pretty good job with his team selection. Apart from a couple of players he was fielding the same team that I would have selected.

Goalkeeper Irving, DR Derek Harvey wearing the Captain’s armband, both now part of the reserve squad, an amateur called Gavin Mitchell at DL, reserve squad Steve Sinclair and under 19 John Paul Bain as centre backs, Kevin Mackenzie at AMR and fellow under 19 player Brian Kelly at AML back in his out of position role, Joe Clark and Chris Stevenson at central midfield with Neal McManus as striker, all from under 19’s squad, and first team Allan McMillan playing as a second striker in preference to his normal AMR role.

The bench was made up of GK Chris McKeown, AMR Michael Weir, AML Scott Colquhoun, AMR Rod Wallace and ST Christopher Black.

The bench was a bit light on defenders but then he didn’t have much to choose from.

When I had finished I folded the sheet into my inside pocket.

“Well are we going to win?” Allison chirped.

“I wouldn’t have thought so.” “Anyway the result is unimportant other than from a morale point of view.” “I just want Dean to get the experience under his belt and to make the right decisions when he has to.”

“You surprise me – about the result I mean.”

“Allison we are playing a First Division club, admittedly at Reserves level, but even so they should be that much more skilful then we are.” “We even have an amateur on the team sheet and you can bet that St. Johnstone won’t be fielding any such players.” “They are a Full Time Professional outfit and I expect their class will tell in the end.” “Another consideration is that a lot of the names on our team sheet won’t be with us in a week or so.”

“You’re not at all confident then?”

“Well not really, but football can be a funny game.” “Occasionally the underdog has his day and beats the pants off a superior team.” “I just wish I had managed to get more players into the club but starting cold as I did gave me no time to properly assess the squad and make the necessary changes

“Are our players really that bad?”

“There are only two that I would describe as being of an acceptable standard that’s Irving in goal and McMillan one of our two strikers.” “Mackenzie can be a decent player but more often than not looks as though he is trying to control a rugby ball as opposed to a football.” “Sinclair is not too bad but he is way past his best.”

“Oh dear.”

“Cheer up Allison after today the only way is up.”

We dallied for a few more minutes before deciding that it was time to put in an appearance in the Board Room. Once there Ryan was quick to assure us that there would always be a place for Allison in the Director’s Box.

“If necessary Jim she can always have your seat when you are in the dug out.”

As we moved on I said to Allison “Well that will come in handy having you next to the intercom.”

“Why is that?”

“I can always call you up with some lewd comments.”

“Don’t you dare!” but the smile made a lie out of the reprimand.

retired_bxterror29

Saturday 29th July 2006. Montrose Reserves v St. Johnstone Reserves

The weather’s early morning promise had developed into a fine dry sunny day with a temperature in the high twenties. As usual there was the ever present sea breeze but even at its strongest gusts it would never be likely to affect the flight of the ball.

Almost a perfect day for a football game I thought as we settled down in the Director’s Box.

St. Johnstone kicked off and almost immediately their midfield contrived to hoof the ball straight into the few fans behind our goal. For the next ten minutes it was pretty much a cat and mouse game as each side probed for any weaknesses.

The first real attack from us followed when Kevin Mackenzie sent in a lovely cross for McMillan to head towards their goal. Unfortunately for us one of their centre backs managed to intervene by heading the ball out for a corner.

The resultant kick was easily dealt with by their defence.

Saints then changed to a more attacking 4-4-2 formation but our defence held firm with Sinclair dealing effectively with both their only two serious attacks.

Twenty minutes gone and I was quite pleased with our performance so far. We had managed to contain them in their own half for most of that time and had easily defended their few threats. I just wished that we could be a bit more adventurous in attack.

Almost on cue I saw Dean signalling from the dug out and we began to press forward.

After a couple on minutes Pirie forced their keeper into conceding a corner with a curving shot that was heading for their top left corner. Mackenzie put in a pearl of a cross from which Kelly forced another corner with a strong header.

Mackenzie again hit the spot with another good cross from which McManus forced yet another corner. One of them has to go in I thought.

This time the honours fell to Kelly to provide the cross. His kick headed straight for their penalty spot where an unmarked Mackenzie duly fired one into their net. Mackenzie raced off like the hound after the hare swinging his arm in circles by way of celebration.

1-0to us and we were looking comfortable.

So far I was impressed with amateur Gavin Mitchell at left back who was managing to contain Saint’s first team regular Ronnie McMennaman playing as AMR. Sinclair was the rock on which our defence was formed while Clark and Mackenzie were showing some nice touches.

Although not overly concerned I was surprised that Irving was not displaying his usual commanding presence in goal. He was leaving the entire organisation and shouting to Sinclair. So far though he hadn’t had a serious shot to deal with.

The next five minutes were virtually a repeat of the first ten with both sides testing the other but not seriously. Saints then began to open up a bit and gradually forced us further and further back into our own half. Despite Dean’s frantic signals we seemed to be unable to break free the only good news was that any encroachment into our penalty area was more than adequately dealt with by our defence.

In the 39th minute Alan Watters, Saint’s other striker, received the ball about 30 yards out from our goal and perhaps realising the futility of passing into our area he decided to have a shot from there. The ball cleared our defence and was destined for the end terrace when Irving decided to jump and catch it. All he did was stop the flight of the ball which dropped straight between his legs, bounced up, and hit the net via his backside.

Apart from the Saint’s celebrations you could have heard a pin drop.

Irving had no need to even go for it as the ball was clearly going well above the cross bar.

A dejected looking Irving was ignored by his fellow defenders as we prepared to kick off.

For the next five minutes Saint’s continued to pressure us but our defence were performing heroic deeds in keeping them out.

With the referee looking at his watch and about to blow the half time whistle Pirie had the ball in an identical area as Watters had and, deciding to emulate his partner, had a pop from 30 yards.

This time Irving had to make the save as the ball was grass skimming its way to our goal. He seemed to have the ball covered and managed to gather it in his arms only for it to slip out, go over his body and into our net yet again.

This time Sinclair and Harvey both laid into Irving who just laid there wishing the ground would swallow him up.

I think he was the most relieved man in the ground when the referee signalled half time allowing us to go into the dressing room contemplating a 2-1 deficit.

The coffee tasted alright but I still had a bad taste in my mouth when Allison said “It’s not going very well is it?”

“Well I’ve seen worse.” “The team are playing as well as they can but you can’t legislate for human error.”

Ryan obviously overheard me and said “Not to worry Jim you can’t beat 12 men and anybody can have an off day.”

“Thanks Chairman but it is still a bitter pill to swallow.”

The Public Address system announced an attendance of 272 then went on to list two substitutions by Dean. Centre back Bain made way for Rod Wallace who swapped positions with Mackenzie and Chris Black came on in place of McManus.

Irving stayed on the field.

Straight from our kick off St. Johnstone were at our throats again with our defence doing their best. On the 46th minute Sinclair headed clear from the latest Saints attack only for the ball to fall to Dixon about 20 yards out. Dixon fired a shot at our goal which although not particularly fierce was pretty accurate. Instead of catching a ball that should have been bread and butter to him Irving pathetically palmed the ball straight to Watters who made no mistake with his shot.

Three one down and Dean had seen enough. The substitution board came up with Irving being replaced by Chris McKeown.

From then on the game settled down into a dog fight with neither side actually threatening the others goal.

Just before full time the intercom went. “Yes Dean?”

“Do you want to talk to them Boss?”

“No Dean, it’s your team you deal with them but tell them I thought that they did well against a superior team and it was just bad luck they lost.”

“Thanks Boss.”

“That was kind of you Jim,” said Allison.

“Not at all Allison – it was the truth.” “The final score should have been one nil to us.”

At that the final whistle blew and we all adjourned back to the boardroom. Thankfully there were no recriminations from anybody with most seeming to put it down to a bad day at the office.

I seriously debated asking Allison to make a day of it by joining me for dinner that evening but decided against it. I figured that we had enjoyed our day so far and didn’t want to push my luck. Apart from that I wasn’t too sure how my mood would develop.



Monday 31st July 2006.

I treated Sunday as a rest day not that I needed one but having checked that we had no injuries I did not see much difference between sitting in my office and sitting in my suite. Besides the suite was more comfortable.

I did venture out for a stroll after lunch enjoying the warmth of the sunshine but the town was pretty dead. Sundays in Scotland I thought.

I found Looney sitting in the bar on my return and joined him in a pint or two.

“What do you want to do with Irving Jim?”

“Well actually nothing.” “Apart from the fact that it is your job there is not a lot I can do with him.” “He is in the right place to learn and hopefully he will learn a few lessons from yesterday’s performance.”

“Let’s just hope he learns them quickly and well, Jim.”

The Scotsman on Monday morning did not even report the score of Saturday’s game. The Globe had a fairly full report and reported fairly that whereas the team had done well three goalkeeping errors cost us the match.

As you would expect the Today not only made a meal of Irving’s errors but turned the spotlight on me for my ‘non-participation’ in the game preferring to ‘drink champagne with a blonde bimbo’ in the Directors Box. While I was not too fussed at them name calling me I was disturbed at Allison being dragged into the dispute. I resolved then and there to do whatever I could to bring them to book. I figured that being lambasted by the press was part and parcel of a football manager’s lot and something he had to expect and to live with. When the press start dragging friends and family into the argument then that is a step too far.

None of the locals mentioned the signing of Tom Doyle. I guessed that the Press Office did not work Sundays.

I decided to sound out Allison as to how she felt at being classified as a bimbo.

“Allison would you come in please?”

“Tom Doyle has just arrived Jim, do you want to see him first?”

“Yes please Allison but come in with him anyway.”

I welcomed Tom to the club and after making sure that he was happy with his accommodation I talked him through our training routines.

Promising to do his best for us Tom left to ‘do some fitness training’.

“He seems keen enough Jim.”

“Most old pros are Allison, at his stage of life he is just glad to have a berth to call home.” “However he will do a job for us of that I am sure.”

“Now then I assume you have read The Today this morning?”

“Yes Jim.”

“How do you feel about being referred to as a ‘bimbo’?”

“Well it’s not very complimentary but it certainly is different.”

“So you have no strong objections?”

“Sticks and stones, Jim, sticks and stones.”

“Well if that is how you really feel then I will let it go this time, but any more of that kind of thing and Today and I will have some serious words.”

“Thanks Jim but that really isn’t necessary.”

“OK then Allison I’ll leave it for now.”

With that she left me to my thoughts.

In spite of my assurances to Allison I was still determined somehow to bring Charlie Anderson and his lies to account. My problem was that I had no idea how to achieve that.

I was no nearer to solving the problem by lunch time which, because of my preoccupation, was a subdued affair. Sandra interrupted my reverie with a request to meet Ryan ‘about two o’clock’ in his office.

“I wonder what that is in aid of?” I said.

“You never know with Ryan Jim.”

“Sit down Jim, sit down.” “Do you want a drink?”

“No thanks Chairman I had my fill of coffee at lunch.”

“Well I’m having one.” “Keep me company with a Diet Coke.”

Ryan couldn’t have been more welcoming. Is there a sting in the tail I wondered?

Once settled with our drinks Ryan came straight to the point.

“Jim I wanted to sound you out, outside of the board room, about how you believe our ‘keep them out of the loop’ strategy was working with regard to Today?”

“Well Chairman as they have not reported on a single press release from us I’d say that side of it was working.” “So far there have been no great news items to report on but they must be at least slightly stung at being behind The Globe with any news.” “That is purely my gut feeling as I have no reports of any complaints to our Press Department.” “It would also account for their unwarranted negative press towards me, and by implication, the club.”

“Yes I would have to agree with you on that Jim.” “What of this morning’s tale?” “How do you and Allison feel about it?”

“To be honest Sir I am disgusted.” “Negative press towards me is almost part of my job description but there is no excuse to drag one’s friends and family into the argument.”

“And Allison?”

“She doesn’t see it in quite the same way as I do and is not unnecessarily perturbed about it.” “I completely disagree and, as much as I wish to, I cannot think of any way to stop Anderson short of me attending the local hospital to have his teeth removed from my fist.”

“While that is something I would like to see but it is not a course of action I would recommend apart from anything else it might cost me a manager for a few months.”

We both had a chuckle at that thought.

Ryan had a think for a few minutes.

“I’ll pass on to Garry and the Press Office that we will continue with our present policy towards The Today newspaper.” “Late information but, as yet, no blackout.”

“That’s fine by me Chairman.”

“With regard to Allison we could always sue them on her behalf but that would apparently be against her express wishes.” “It would also be not too difficult for any half way decent lawyer to paint her as some sort of less than virtuous woman.” “She has been divorced for about twenty years and I’m sure that in that time there has been other men in her life.” “I’m not subscribing to that view but her reputation would certainly be damaged if not destroyed.” “I don’t think either of us wants that.”

“Certainly not Chairman.”

“As it happens I am vaguely familiar with the owner of Today.” “Unusually it is not part of a conglomerate but a purely privately owned enterprise.” “I think the owner just glories in being the proprietor as it gives him some credence in town and opens a few doors that normally would be closed.” “It also helps that he is not an overly rich man so he could be vulnerable to a threat of punitive legal action.” “Initially though I will try the ‘be reasonable’ approach.”

“I wish you luck Chairman.”

“OK then Jim unless there is anything you wish to add we will leave it at that for now.” “I’ll keep you posted.”

Back in my office I decided to say nothing to Allison.

At training that evening Doyle slotted into our first team squad and apart from a lack of fitness showed me enough to convince me that he would be an asset.

Speaking to Dean about Irving’s performance, or lack of it, on Saturday apart from passing on profuse apologies from the keeper, Dean had no explanation to offer.

As we had an Under 19’s game on Wednesday against Albion Rovers I extended the same courtesy to Ian as I had to Dean last week by allowing him to train separately with his chosen 16.

retired_bxterror29

Tuesday 1st August 2006.

Due to tonight’s Under 19 game it seemed as though the whole of Tuesday was turned upside down as it became a training day.

Actually the morning started quietly enough with only The Today continuing to lambaste me as the world’s worst manager. Once again they spoke of ‘unrest’ in the Boardroom and wondered if my tenure would finally come to an end at next weeks meeting. At least this time the words champagne and bimbo were not included in the report.

I had just started my midmorning coffee when Allison patched Dean through to me.

“Boss can you come down to the treatment room straight away?” “There is something going on here that you should know about.”

On my way down I wondered who had broken his neck or whatever but that was a simple problem compared to what Dean handed me outside the room when I arrived.

“Boss I found Steve Sinclair in the dressing room earlier sitting down crying his eyes out.” “I’ve managed to get him in here unseen but he won’t tell me the problem.” “He is almost inconsolable.”

“What makes you think I will be more successful than you Dean?”

“I have no idea Boss but we can’t leave him as he is.”

“Well that’s true.”

I thought for a minute then grabbed the internal phone.

“Allison, do you have any of that large pack of Kleenex left?” “Good.” “Bring it down to the treatment room I have need of your mothering skills again – but this time it is not a kid.”

When Allison arrived I allowed Dean to explain the situation to her emphasising that we were completely mystified as to the cause of it all.

After Allison entered the room closing the door behind her Dean and I ‘stood guard’ in the corridor. This not only ensured privacy but was also a protection for Allison as we had no idea how Steve would react.

I had seen grown men cry before but there normally was a fairly simple explanation for this. Usually it involved the death of a close family member, or a wife or girl friend fleeing the nest, but Dean didn’t think that either of those applied in this case.

Allison was in there for about half an hour before reappearing saying that he was ‘more settled now’ and that he would be alright in a few minutes.

“Dean, I’m going to disappear with Allison but if you, or he, need to talk to me I’ll make room instantly.”

“OK Boss.”

Returning to the office Allison replaced my by now cold coffee and joined me in my office.

“Did you manage to get anything out of Steve?”

“Absolutely nothing but he is full of frustration and anger, and not a little fear.” “He did promise me though that he would talk to you about it all later on.” “How long later on is I have no idea.”

“Well thanks anyway Allison at least we have done our bit, the rest is up to him.”

Allison was only out of my office for about three minutes before she buzzed me.

“Jim I had a message to ring The Globe regarding an interview do you want me to set up an appointment or fend them off again?”

“No, set up a date – the problem is when.” “I don’t want to talk to them on a match day and Friday afternoon I have the monthly staff meeting prior to Monday’s Board Meeting.” “I also want to leave Thursday clear in case Steve wants to talk to me so I’ll be guided by you.”

“How about Friday morning?” “If I set it up for 1030 that in itself puts a time limit on the whole thing.”

“Good thinking Batman – or should I say Batwoman?”

“Hmmm, I’ll settle for Allison.”

She was barely off the line before she buzzed back.

“Our illustrious Director of Football wants to know if it is convenient for him to attend your office after lunch/”

“Attend!” “Christ has he got Royal connections?” “Well I suppose if he must then so be it although I can’t for the life of me think why he should.”

“Ok I’ll set it up for 2.30 – you might as well have a decent lunch break first.”

“Good thinking again – Allison.”

“That’s better.”

After the events of the morning lunch was more than a welcome break. There was no point on dwelling on Steve Sinclair’s problems, whatever they may be, and the reason for the Director of Football’s visit would soon be apparent.

With that settled Allison and I chatted quite amicably throughout the meal which, in itself, helped to lesson the tension I had been feeling.

All too soon it was time to return to the office and face the lion – but this would be in my den, not his.

Allison duly announced him prompt on 2.30 and, having ushered him in, sat in her normal place at the rear of the office.

“Good Afternoon, Stevie.” “Now what can I do for you?”

“Well for a start Jim I don’t think that Allison’s presence is absolutely necessary.”

“I’m sorry you feel that way Stevie but that is the way things are around here.” “I never see anybody alone, and that includes Ryan, and Allison’s notes do help me to make any necessary decisions afterwards.” “They also resolve any ‘misunderstandings’ that may crop up later.” “As you can see then her presence is, in my view, an essential part of the proceedings.”

“Very well Jim, who am I to disrupt your routines?”

“I believe Jim that you and I somehow or other got off on the wrong foot.” “Contrary to any belief you may have I welcomed, and still do, your appointment as Manager at the club.” “I believe, as all the Directors do, that you will be good for the club and all I can see is advancement for all concerned.”

“Thank you Stevie.” The words lying and git did cross my mind.

“In spite of that I am finding myself slowly but surely being isolated from the business of the club.” “For instance I believe that Dave McMillan is now handling all the football related contracts which is something I feel that I could quite easily handle without stepping on your toes.”

“I’m afraid that you are a bit out of date Stevie.” “Ryan had a bit of a reorganisation and the contracts and accommodation files are now my responsibility in addition to my other football duties.” “I thought that you would have been informed.”

“The memo or whatever must have slipped through my net.”

He is definitely lying now I thought – but why? I noticed a bead of sweat running down his cheek and thought he’s desperate – no he’s afraid. Why the fear?

“Yes Stevie unfortunately those things can happen.”

“Yes Jim.” “I’d still like to help you out though.”

“In what way?”

“Well I would be more than willing and certainly capable of removing the rather tedious contract negotiations from your remit.” “The season proper is about to begin and you will be busy enough deciding upon who to retain, who to release, who would be good for the club, which team to field playing which tactic.” “More than enough I would have thought to fully occupy your time without continually being involved in negotiations with troublesome football agents.” “I have also overhead that one of our players experienced a personal crisis this morning.” “I am not familiar with the nature of the problem but feel sure that I, a much older, wiser man could have offered good council to the player concerned.”

“How did you hear about our ‘distressed’ player?”

“As I said I overheard some comments about it.”

“I see.”

I made no immediate reply to his offer but sat there looking as though I was considering the proposal. Actually I had no intentions of accepting it but I wanted to find out why the offer was being made. There was more than just one bead of sweat on Stevie’s face now – it was positively glistening.

“Jim I have no wish to pressure you but I urge you to make the correct decision and allow me to handle those contracts.” “I’m sure that the benefits to you will be immediate.” “It would also be of benefit to you if you allow me to be the players’ counsellor or father figure again contributing to your personal lightening of your load.”

Again I remained silent.

Stevie was almost becoming desperate.

“Jim I don’t understand your hesitation.” “The only beneficiary is you I have nothing to gain apart from contributing to the affairs of the club.” “I am very eager to make amends for our bad start and this is the only way I know how.”

Again I made no reply just sitting there apparently contemplating his offer.

After a few minutes of silence Stevie played his last card.

“Jim I have to say that this is a time limited offer.” “Either accept it now or we revert to our previous relationship.”

“In that case Stevie you leave me no alternative but to say no.” “I can’t go against the wishes of my Chairman even if I wanted to which I don’t.” “I’m sorry mate but that is my final decision.” “You are welcome to appeal to Ryan but I see no reason for him to change.”

“Very well Jim.” “I hope you don’t live to regret your choice.”

With that remark Stevie left rather hurriedly.

“Allison, I smell a rat and not necessarily the one that just left the room.” “Make a transcript of your notes and pass it on personally to Ryan via your own hand.”

“Yes Jim, but please be careful.”

“Who me?”

After the events of the day training that evening was a bit of an anti-climax. As usual I stayed with Billy as did Tom Doyle. I don’t think either of us had an easy time of it.

In the pub afterwards Billy mentioned that he hadn’t seen Steve Sinclair. Dean replied that he had some personal problems and he had excused him training. Everybody seemed satisfied.

Sleep didn’t come easy that night – the Brain had too much to think about.

retired_bxterror29

Wednesday 2nd August 2006.

The Today were, if nothing else, pretty consistent in their critical comments about me. This morning I was guilty of encroaching upon the territory of some directors in my ‘relentless empire building pursuit’. I was even accused of refusing well meaning assistance and help in carrying out my ‘proper duties’. If I devoted even half my time to ‘team affairs’ instead of ‘nibbling’ at other peoples domain I would be a much better manager and there would be no need for a ‘vote of censure’ which must surely follow my activities. ‘A reliable source’ within the club had assured Today that if I was not sacked during Monday’s board meeting then I would be ‘severely’ reined in and forced to confine my activities to the players and not my empire.

The Brain thought that you didn’t have to be a genius to figure out where most of that had originated. Proving that was a different matter entirely.

I was glad to see nothing of any note in The Globe. They had obviously decided to keep their interview scoop under wraps for the moment. I guessed that Saturday would see a few headlines in that particular newspaper.

That got me thinking about the interview and in particular the timing of it. After a few minutes thought I decided to make a change if it was acceptable to The Globe.

“Allison what are you doing on Sunday?”

“As little as possible Jim.” “Why?”

“Do you fancy working with me but at the Hotel?” “I would throw in lunch and probably Dinner too.”

“Sounds like an offer too good to refuse.” “What is the occasion?”

“Well it is a conditional offer.”

“Careful.”

“Wrong condition Allison.” “It depends upon whether The Globe is willing or able to change the interview from here on Friday to the Hotel on Sunday.” “Same conditions but probably not Dinner.”

“Any particular time in mind?”

“Let’s say 12.30 for you and one for them.”

“I’ll get back to you – and thanks for the invite.”

“I did say it was work Allison.”

“Spoil sport.”

I could just imagine her on the other end of the intercom with the I dare you look in her eye.

About ten when Allison brought in my coffee she confirmed that everything was set up for Sunday with The Globe.

“I suppose you’ll be booted and suited.”

“No.” “The hotel is pretty casual about dress for guests at meal times.” “Smart but casual I think is the right phrase.”

“Pity, I was looking forward to some retail therapy.”

“Women!”

As we both laughed there was a knock at my door and Ryan stuck his head through the opening. “Hi Jim – you busy?”

“No.” “Join us for a coffee.”

“Don’t mind if I do.”

While Allison bustled off to do the necessary Ryan handed me an envelope explaining that he had intercepted Ian in Allison’s office and had said he would deliver Ian’s note.

As I read the note Ryan asked “if it is anything important Jim I can wait or return later?”

“Not necessary Ryan it is only Ian’s team sheet for tonight’s match.” “I can look at it later.”

That was one of the things I liked about Ryan. Although probably the most important man in the place everything, including him, was secondary to the welfare of the club. Not many people were like that.

Once we were settled and watered I brought Ryan up to date with The Globe interview and asked if there was any taboo subject.

“Not really Jim although being reporters they are bound to be seeking out any perceived scandal.” “Unfortunately it is not all about football those days.” “If you can stick to football matters and whatever personal disclosures you want to make – including any denials then so much the better.” “Unfortunately if you protest too much people tend to take the view that denials mean the positive.” “At least Allison will be with you so we will have an accurate record of what was, or was not, said.” “If I can have a transcript of that on Monday I’d appreciate it Allison.”

“Yes Chairman.”

“Why the timing change Jim?”

“I just thought that, for good or bad, by having it on Sunday all three of our squads would have played a competitive game and nobody could accuse me of hiding behind any anticipated bad result.” “This way everybody has been seen and I, and they, can comment on each if necessary.” “I would be presenting an open book for their perusal.”

“Good thinking Jim.”

“Which brings me to the reason for my visit – your chat yesterday with Stevie?”

“I accept the transcript as being an accurate record of what was said Jim but what I need to know is what was his manner during the conversation.”

“Well Chairman he started off looking and sounding absolutely normal but at an early stage I noticed that he was beginning to sweat.” “By the end of it all his face was soaking wet.” “As we progressed I noticed a desperation in him which I hadn’t seen before.” “This desperation was eventually augmented by a certain amount of fear.”

“Any final conclusions?”

“In spite of his assurances that everything was for my, and the clubs, benefit I suspect that it was critical to him for whatever reason to become the football contract father figure at the club.” “I did not believe his motives.”

“Neither do I Jim.” “Any conclusions?”

“None that I dare mention out loud Chairman.”

“It could be that we are on the same wave length.”

“Probably.”

“That brings me to this morning’s article in Today.” “To my mind there is only one person who could have passed on the information contained therein.” “The transcript was only handled by you, Allison and me and it was locked in my personal safe in the office.” “Only my solicitor has the combination of that safe apart from myself.” “It would appear that we have found our mole.”

“Irrespective of what we may believe Chairman we are still a long way from proving anything.”

“Unfortunately Jim, as usual, you are correct.”

“Jim, please do not take what I am about to say as ‘the dreaded vote of confidence’ because it is meant sincerely.” “The whole of the Board, or at least those who matter, are very supportive of your position here and what you have achieved for the club in that relatively short time.” “We are very concerned that the negative press directed at you will eventually drive you away and that is something that nobody wants.” “You are good for this club Jim and we know that given time, we will be a success on the field just as much as you have improved our lot off it.”

“Thank you Chairman I really do appreciate that what you are saying comes from the heart.” “Please pass on to the Board that I am here for the long term and that the negative press does not bother me.” “As long as Today is sniping at me they are leaving everybody else alone.” “We have some pretty young players here as well as some insecure individuals and I am happy to take the heat away from them.”

“Thank you Jim, I, and the Board, am and will be pretty relieved to hear you say that.”

“My pleasure Ryan.”

“I haven’t contrived to meet with Today’s management yet as I don’t want to attach any importance to them that they do not warrant by making an official appointment.” “I am hopeful though of ‘bumping into them’ over the weekend at a couple of functions my wife and I are attending.” “I’ll try the reasonable approach first before getting the big guns out.”

“With regard to Stevie I’m afraid that until such time as we can prove something there is not a lot we can do.” “He is virtually out of the loop now so his information can only be conjecture and relatively unimportant.”

“Thanks for your time Jim; I’ll leave you to the tender mercies of your PA.”

Once we had settled the office down I reached for Ian’s team sheet.

In goal he had Colin McKeown, Simon Kidd at right back with Alan Ritchie his counterpart on the left both flanking centre backs John Paul Bain and seventeen year old amateur Scott Notman. The midfield had Scott Colquhoun on the left and Kevin Mackenzie wide right with Michael Weir and Chris Stevenson in the central berths. The two strikers were Paul McGowan and, wearing the Captain’s armband, Chris Black. The bench was made up of GK Andrew Fridge, MR Stephen Watson MR Paul Stevenson, DC Alan Robertson and MC Joe Clark. Watson, Stevenson and Robertson were all amateur players.

It looked a fairly balanced squad with the sprinkling of amateurs, particularly on the bench, emphasising the lack of depth in the Under19’s squad. Come on Scouts, I thought, give me something to play with.

Lunch was our normal light hearted affair. At one point Allison had a fit of the giggles.

“What’s tickled your humour gland?”

“Ryan thinking I was tender.” “I could be a vicious back scratcher.”

“Lord protect me!”

That induced outright laughter.

retired_bxterror29

Wednesday 2nd August 2006. Montrose Under 19 v Arbroath Under 19.

Once again Allison decided to watch the match so we both settled down in the Director’s Box awaiting the start of the game.

“You’re in danger of being referred to as a bimbo again.”

“Oh!” “That reminds me.”

With that she dashed off but returned shortly wearing a full length red wig and dark glasses.

Both Ryan and I nearly collapsed with laughter as she said “This will do your reputation no harm at all dear.”

Ryan commented that Today will have a field day with this one as we prepared for the kick off.

Albion Rovers duly started the game and in spite of being set up as an attacking 4-4-2 formation seemed content to allow us to dictate the game. Our midfield quartet commanded their area and with Colquhoun and Weir making great inroads down both wings and getting some good crosses in we were continually pressuring them.

In the first twenty minutes Albion only threatened us once and that was easily dealt with by our defence.

Mackenzie and Colquhoun continued with their raiding tactics almost at will. Mackenzie’s latest excursion saw him speeding down the right with a shadowing defender just to his left and the Albion defence anticipating another cross. A sudden change of tack saw him turn inside his marker and head straight for Albion’s near post with a floundering left back trying to catch up. Seeing the danger the left centre back headed for the post to cover his keeper but thus leaving Chris Black totally unmarked about ten yards out. With the back and the keeper now totally committed to scrambling to cover the post Mackenzie struck a hard pass straight to Black’s feet who had no trouble or hesitation in thumping the ball into a virtually empty net.

Both Black and Mackenzie raced off in a joint celebration pursued by almost all of their team mates.

Steady lads, I thought, there are almost 70 minutes to go.

The remainder of that first half became almost processional in our attacks on Albion’s goal but we never really threatened to score again. If possession counted as a match winner we were completely out of sight of Albion.

During half time refreshments Allison commented that it seemed to be going well.

“Yes that’s true but you have to remember that a lot of our players are on their way out of the club.” “It makes you wonder whether we are better or Albion are really poor.”

“You’re never satisfied are you?”

“Right now I’m wondering whether I would be better satisfied by the ferocious blonde or the pussy cat red head.”

“Well at least you know that this one isn’t natural.”

“Allison I don’t even know if the blonde is natural.”

“Jim!”

Both our smiles took any sting out of the reprimand.

Announcing an attendance of 179 the PA system also told us of Michael Weir being substituted by Joe Clark. Although he hadn’t had a bad game so far Weir had been the least effective of a good midfield display.

Albion lined up in the same formation as we kicked off. Obviously though some harsh words had been spoken in their dressing room as they troubled us a lot more than they had throughout the first half. Instead of playing as we wanted in their half we had to work harder to make any decent attacks.

Mackenzie and Colquhoun still troubled their defence with their raiding down each flank but they were not as frequent as they had been in the first half.

Gradually Albion began to assert themselves as they began to trouble our defence more and more. It was still an even match but Albion were definitely more involved than previously.

Alan Ritchie was beginning to show signs of real fatigue when Ian decided to replace him on 61 minutes with a fresh pair of legs in the form of Alan Robertson. I was glad that Ritchie received some appreciative applause as he left the field. Although, like the rest of the defence, he had little to contend with in the first half he had shown a willingness to cover and defend in all areas throughout the second half.

The game continued pretty much as before but whereas Albion were more involved they didn’t display enough to really trouble our defence and you began to think that they had shot their bolt.

After 72 minutes Ian had seen enough and decided to defend our lead. Chris Black made way for Paul Stevenson who received the arm band in the process. Like Ritchie Chris received some appreciative applause although I felt it was mainly for his goal as apart from that he had not shown much.

Stevenson slotted straight into what was now a five man midfield and this, plus Albion’s lack of skill, effectively ended the game as a contest.

Just before the final whistle Ian buzzed me with the same question as Dean.

Declining his invitation I did ask him to pass on a ‘well done’ from me to all the players.

Back in the Board Room everybody was pleased with the result and a generally happy atmosphere prevailed. I did remind Ryan that most of the players on display tonight would not be with us for very much longer.

Allison carried on being a red head until it was time to leave.



Thursday 3rd August 2006.

As you would expect The Scotsman managed to totally ignore the Montrose Under 19 squad and last nights result. Well it is a national newspaper.

The Globe carried its usual pretty fair, albeit somewhat brief, match report. Whoever the reporter was he or she was astute enough to venture the opinion that it was not due to us being a good or great team but more down to Albion being, at best, not very good.

The Today carried two stories. The match report was, like The Globe’s, a fairly brief affair, something to do with deadlines I would expect, but gave all the credit for our victory to Albion’s ineptitude. According to them the ball magically appeared in Albion’s box and bounced off Black’s foot. Apparently the Mackenzie contribution didn’t count for much as it was not mentioned at all.

The second article, a much longer piece obviously written earlier than the match report, was a continuation of the ‘we hate Thomson’ campaign. Apart from repeating or rehashing previous trouble in the board room tales there was not a lot that was new. One comment I did agree with was their opinion that there was not a great future for the club given the current crop of younger players.

The only new personal comment was that I had exchanged the blonde bimbo for a gorgeous red head from my ‘current stable’ of women. I should be so lucky.

When Allison arrived at ten with the coffee I asked her which she preferred, the blonde bimbo or the gorgeous red head.

“I should be asking you that question.”

“The jury is still out on that one.”

“Huh!”

Just before lunch Tony O’Doherty and Steve West arrived, were welcomed by me, informed about training times and ushered off by Allison to their respective digs.

During lunch Allison asked if my new players really would make a difference.

“Probably not right away although that would be nice.” “Fitness, particularly match fitness, is not something that appears overnight.” “I have no doubt that their individual skill levels are well in excess of our current players but it is not about individuals.” “It is a team game and those new guys will have to fit in snugly with the existing players but that can take time.”

“So it can be difficult fitting in new players?”

“A lot depends upon the individuals involved but any team should be able to absorb two or possibly three new players with little or no problem.”

“So how many of the new guys will you play on Saturday?”

“Hopefully all three but ask me again on Friday night.”

“Make that Saturday morning I’ve got little enough time off this week as it is.”

It was not until later in the afternoon that I remembered my hope that Steve Sinclair might have wanted to talk to me today. At 4.30 in the evening that was looking to be a pretty forlorn hope.

That evening in the hotel I decided that I needed an idle night so had room service serve dinner in the suite and just watched television most of the time.



Friday 4th August 2006.

Unusually those days none of the papers even mentioned Montrose. Perhaps Anderson was having a day off.

Bearing in mind the staff meeting this afternoon I had a good look at our training schedules and decided to up the ante in the fitness department. Although a necessary part of the game most players hated training without a ball and fitness was right up there at the upper end of the hate tree. I realised though that we still had a bit to go in the fitness stakes and the more we did now the better our prospects would be for lasting out the season.

I managed to complete the review just before lunch which left the brain free to enjoy Allison’s company.

By three o’clock all the staff, including a blonde (natural?) Tail End Charlie was all settled and watered in my office.

I ran through the changes I had made to our training programs and all agreed that, at this stage fitness was a priority.

I then moved on to the training sessions themselves.

“I made a mistake when scheduling Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights as regular training times.” “Looking at all our fixture lists the first squad normally have games on a Saturday with the odd Wednesday here and there.” “The reserve team normally play on a Sunday while the Under 19 squad are normally scheduled for Saturday games again with the odd Wednesday flung in.”

“With that scheduling it seems pretty pointless to confine ourselves to particularly Wednesday night training.” “”That would mean the loss of at least one training night every so often and I would suggest that training deserves a bit more attention than that.”

“Subject to any serious objections from any of you I propose to make every week day night, Monday to Friday inclusive, a training night unless one of our squads has a game on any particular evening.” “Sunday, irrespective of who is playing where, will predominately remain as the post Saturday injury treatment day.” “As before anybody not involved in a match is free to train, with or without your guidance, at any time convenient to them and the club with injury treatment occurring as an on going feature.”

“Any comments?”

Gary: “There will probably be a few moans from some of our soap addicts but it is after all designed to be to their personal benefit so I think most will accept the new timetable.”

Dean: “I believe that if any individual objected strongly enough to the extent where he was not happy then that would indicate that perhaps that player might be better off plying his trade elsewhere.”

With no further comments from anybody else I said that we would start the new training regimes and timetable on Monday.

“The last item on my list is the current transfer window which closes in about four weeks time on 31 August.”

“I have not had any Scout reports in yet but something must appear soon from either or both men as they are just as aware as we are of the time we have available to assess and possibly sign any new players.”

“Apart from a good regular goal scorer I am looking to generally improve the quality in all squads.” “The fact that everybody else in Scotland is looking for a good striker does not help our cause too much but you never know.”

“Your part in this is to pass on any names of anybody you think might fit the bill.” “I am particularly referring to our current crop of amateur players.” “Through necessity we have been selecting and playing a few this past week.” “If any of them have any potential at all then they should be Montrose players it would be a very black mark against us if we allowed a potential gem to slip through our fingers.”

“Anybody got a player in mind?”

Dean: “There is one that I need to have another look at but at the moment no outstanding candidates.”

Ian: “I have a couple in mind that might make the grade but, like Dean, would need another week or so to make a proper assessment.”

“OK we’ll leave it at that for now.” “Have your good second looks but if you think any strange scout is tapping them up then make a quick decision and get them in here so we can sign them up.”

“Well that’s me done.” “Anybody got anything for me/”

Dean: “Some players are reacting to the negative press you have been getting.” “It’s not that they believe what is being said it is more a concern that you might say ‘I don’t need this’ and move on to smother waters.” “The majority think that you will be good for them and the club which is a view shared by all of us here today.”

“Well thanks for your confidence in my abilities gentlemen.” “I assure all of you that I am not going anywhere in the immediate future apart from anything else nobody is asking.”

That comment generated a few laughs.

“Before we start training tonight I’ll repeat that to the players and hopefully that will dispel their concerns and allow them to concentrate on their game.”

Dean: “Good idea Boss.”

Dean loitered behind everybody as the meeting broke up and passed on that Sinclair had started training on his own.

“Although he is very quiet he seems to be over the blues.” “He has given me no indication of wanting to speak to anybody so far.”

“I hope that, whatever it is, he gets it off his chest soon.”

As promised I made my ‘I’m staying here’ statement to the players before training proper started. The news was greeted by a spontaneous round of applause.

I was touched by the reaction.