Time for a break

I won't be hitting the beach, although I will be taking advantage of the roof garden here at C(h)arlton House.  Having enjoyed the snooker I am looking forward to Wimbledon and the World Cup.   I will be slowing down in terms of posts over the summer.     Richard Cawley on Substack will keep us reliably updated.

Blogging as an activity has been overtaken by new formats.   Two of our leading bloggers have gone to join Sam Bartram, as I may do as I enter my 80th year,

Podcasts are very much in fashion, but I don't find time to listen even to one I subscribe to.   I can read much more quickly than I can listen.

Substack is a favoured format and is important for those seeking to make a living like Richard Cawley.  I make a little bit of money from the ads on these pages but I plough it back into the club by buying raffle tickets.

The two active bloggers (Chicago and Burgundy) have the benefit of living outside the UK.   Regent Street in the Royal Spa hardly rivals, although it is amusing how many locals have suddenly discovered their inner Sky Blue.

However, because I have been supporting Charlton for a very long time, I can offer some historical perspective.   We have nearly the lost the club more than once, certainly in terms of playing at The Valley. We have suffered more than most clubs with rogue owners, but at last we have some stability.

I think that mid-table is a realistic target for next season.   The biggest problem with supporting Charlton is the negativity and pessimism of so many supporters.   Win and there is little activity on social media: lose (or even draw) and every armchair manager is explaining how they would have done it better.

'It's all about opinions', but modern football is increasingly about evidence in terms of data analysis (the foundation of Brentford's success and now working at Hearts since Brighton's owner acquired a stake).

One leading moaner said in January 'we are already relegated' and we weren't even in a relegation position.   Do cheer up.

Fuel costs and potential shortages are a real concern, but try and enjoy the summer.