I think its simply about being honest and straightforward, applies to anyone that is developing nicely and looks to have a proper career ahead of them. Hyam would need a different approach. Lads that we are developing need to understand that it's not about being the best kept secret playing keepy uppy in the back alley by the bins, you need a club that believes in you and wants to make you into someone of note. Skill exercised in the wrong environment leads to nowt. That's not free. We deserve to benefit as well as them. The key as we all know is to have that conversation early whilst we still have leverage. I'd be very serious, don't sign and we're done, go somewhere else. Good luck (seriously) but we're parting company, call your agent. I'm guessing you agree with me, honesty and fairness (yes he must be paid well and played in enough games) but be up front and tell people where they stand and your expectations of them. Worked for me. Venkys on the other hand, clueless.

Dolan had an early period when he showed promise. He hadn't yet turned in his later performances that now make him attractive to other teams. My conversation with him would have happened in his season #2 along the lines of: "You obviously have great potential, one day you'll be well sought after. Right now though I need to think about the club. You'll grow from being here, you'll play a lot so I need to protect your value to us before putting in the work to grow you and raise your profile. Sign this." If no: "Then I'll have to ask you to start looking for another club as you won't be developing at our expense any more. You're in the U21 until you leave or reconsider". "We like you a lot TD but that's how it is. Let me know what you decide by next week." Something like that.

I re-read it and got very depressed. Thought, just what is the point. I don't think I care any more. It's like being locked up for life and not being able to find the escape tunnel. I thought to spare you all from my torment and hit delete.

Deleted.

I think the target is always 12th Philip. Natural variance happens of course +/- but I believe that is always their target. Grim and inexplicable isn't it.

Is he the new left sided centre back signing we've been after?

《Flame On》: I think someone needs to explain to them the difference between a "benefactor model" and an "OWNERSHIP model". Rather like the difference between caring and responsible parenting and having children and claiming you've done your bit and now the rest is on the kids ... food, shelter protection ... you know, those irritating bits of responsibility that go with your earlier decisions. They wanted a Prem club (created by the efforts of others), pledged undying love, had their wicked way, shagged the club and now say that we have to go scavenging in bins to feed ourselves. I don't think their heart is in it, do you? (rhetorical and sarcasm in case if doubt) Benefactor model my arse, if they're benefactors then I'm a Burnley supporter (again, sarcasm in case if doubt, Hell would freeze first). 《/Flame Off》

Brittain and Beck were head and shoulders the two best full backs in the Championship last season. We should be celebrating re-signing Beck again on loan by now but instead we are forced to worry about losing Brittain instead! Is there nothing to look forward to with this ownership? Every day something awful happens or is about to happen, is there no respite. It grinds you down, it really does. If the board has it's hands tied over funds why can't they at least better manage supporter expectations and just tell us what is or isn't going on. That doesn't cost anything! WTF. Now where did I put that season ticket money?!

Just read this: "As of early July 2025, the latest injury and suspension report for Blackburn Rovers does not list Sidnei Tavares among its unavailable players, confirming he is fully fit for selection." I'm confused. How do we know he's injured as mentioned on here several times?

Hey I totally agree with the observations about the danger of a L1 destination, I just feel that's not the likeliest intent. Inevitable, yes if they keep deciding to twist instead of sticking so totally agree its a very real danger given the punts they are taking. Whelan spoke wise words. We know there was something rotten in that sale deal, the behavioural evidence since then supports that, it's an inescapable conclusion. My point is that the data all supports the theory that there is something special to them about the Championship. My take is that they may stumble and we end up in L1 or even fluke a promotion but that's not the intent. They play a risky game at our expense. They get free spins we get Purgatory.

Then why did we go balls out for promotion when we got there?

They want us in the Championship for ever, not above or below. No idea why but it's as clear as can be. All sales, failed registrations, contract wind-downs and 'purchases' all evidence this along with their exquisitely judged timings. All the wood is behind the arrowhead IMO. It's as clear as can be to those with eyes and a willingness to look. We're in this league and going nowhere. EVER.

Rothwell-esq?

Elliott Bennett gives a good insight into contract negotiations under Venkys in todays Telegraph. Good bloke. Loves the club.

Do we know who it was who threw the snowball? Did it ever get claimed? Whatever your view on the 'incident' anyone who understands Indian pride and dignity will know that it had an effect. It was shit here pre-snowball and treble shit post-snowball.