July 25 2006

Selhurst Park

Despite the many summers under his belt, currently Jamesey finds it hard to imagine football on a cold winter's day.

Well, at least my new season's card has arrived.

On Monday morning (July 24), there came a letter from CPFC containing my card, a £10 gift voucher decorated by one of Peter Taylor's less convincing smiles and a letter from our old friend, commercial guru Kevin Watts.

As the south-east suffers in temperatures of 90F-plus it is difficult to imagine a bum-freezing fixture on a grey December afternoon.

Personally, I can take any amount of heat on an Aegean island with the sea lapping a few yards away. But in inner London, with the humidity, congestion and air pollution, no thank you.

I had to use the underground last week and thought I had passed away and gone to Hades. I pity anyone out there who has to do that twice a day, five times a week.

In the picture of Taylor mentioned above, our new gaffer is holding what appears to be a normal Palace red-and-blue striped shirt. I can't see the back of it but I hope it's not blue like last season so we look like Chelsea from the rear view.

I can't tell what colour the away shirt is but it looks like a rather dreary dark mud colour. Perhaps it's bad printing?

Anyhow I won't be availing myself of Watts's offer. I am far too old to wear replica football shirts.

And I'll let Mr Watts have almost the last word. I quote: "We are delighted to welcome you back to Selhurst Park for another exciting season ahead. A new manager in Peter Taylor, a fresh approach and three new signings to date, there is certainly plenty to look forward to this year."

I genuinely and sincerely hope you are right, Mr Watts.

Email Jamesey with your comments to Jevans3704@aol.com

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