We know the backdrop. The window was.... Practical of not disastrous. The general consensus from the outside -and plenty on the inside - is that we’re staring at a transitional year, a consolidation effort, or worse, a grim scrap for survival while the owners look on with complete apathy.
I get the arguments, but I'm just not getting the dread.
In fact, it’s the exact opposite. I feel that something's brewing, there’s something in the air that I felt with good seasons in the past. It’s a confusing feeling - I can’t wait for the next match. Part of me says I should be dreading what's coming, but I can't shake the sensation of excited anticipation. Something good is going to happen.
I’m not looking at squad depth charts or board politics right now; I’m watching this group. I’m impatient for the next 90 minutes. I’m anticipating the Behind-The-Blades clips, replaying the highlights, and watching for partnerships and chemistry to start take hold on the pitch. I have an irrational hope about this group, that contradicts the on paper narrative. Weirdly, I'm finding the prospect of the season exiting.
I don't think I'm blindly happy-clapping, there's something in the waters that for me, is driving a quiet, stubborn buzz every time kickoff approaches.
Bollocks to the backroom drama. Bring on kick off.