AA I'm not going to get involved in a 'my dick is bigger than yours' discussion about the support I have given this club since the late 50s. However if you cannot grasp the overwhelming reason why STs are down 50% and still need to wait until the transfer window shuts to pass judgement on this evil regime which has ripped the heart out of the club with no time for us oldies then I'm totally dumbfounded
Like comments "toxic regime" I have a massive problem with " ripped the heart out of the club" cliche. It's a very emotive statement, but what does it actually mean. It certainly hasn't done that for me, or several supporters I'm in contact with. We all have our hearts fully focussed on Charlton, so let me know, and this isn't a glib request, what ripping the heart out of the club actually means for you.
Altrincham, you appear to be desperately clutching at straws to support your views which in all honesty you will have trouble substantiating. It is quite revealing that you are unwilling to state your views on the regime at this time. I suspect you will find more reasons not to do so at the end of August.
My views are that they are no worse or better than Jimenez and Slater, but they seem to get a lot more abuse. The appointment of Karel Frey was a monumental mistake which was compounded by keeping him in the job for far too long. But I'm in this for the long term, and am happy with the appointment of Slade. Lets hope he gets the support.
Quite simply because Jimenez retained Chris Powell as manager and whether or not you rate his ability you could not conceivably question his integrity.
Jimenez and Slater were scum in my book, but they didn't get involved in the day to day running of the club at all, certainly until they forced out Varney and Kavanagh, and even then they wanted Prothero to do it.
Despite all that they wanted to put a winning team on the pitch for their own purposes, which coincided with what fans wanted. There's no confidence that is what Duchatelet wants or at least no trust in his ability to do so. Hence the reaction he and his puppet get from a majority of fans.
If you really think so many longtime fans are giving up season tickets for other reasons I think you are deluding yourself.
For what's it's worth I don't think we will ever see Duchatelet humiliated by a judge in the way that Jimenez was, which is to his credit.
I totally agree with you that the best decision they did was to appoint Powell, and provided funds through a third source to buy a team. Then it went downhill after the funding was cut.
OK, People are asking me to respond to my original post, so here goes! I have renewed my season ticket and I am continuing to support Valley Gold. Last season, living in South Manchester, I missed 5 games all season, home and away. I went to Austria to support the team, I was the only Charlton supporter, in Pinkafeld, to support the team against the Russians. In Birkfeild I was the only UK based supporter against the Israelis, although their were some enthusiastic Italian and Austrian Charlton fans, including Vienna addick and his son. I would recommend these European pre-season tours to any fan. I had a fantastic time in Vienna, visiting 3 art galleries, taking a selfie with Klimt's kiss in the Belvedere museum, and generally enjoying myself, especially hiring a car for the second game, and visiting Hundertwasser's spa village at Blumeau, a cross between Park Guell in Barcellona and Hobbiton, fantastic. The reason I'm going on about the tour is that I was amazed that I was the only one. Coventry played Sturm Graz in the same stadium in Pinkafeld, and they bought around 30 supporters. Has the poison got so deep, the anti- Duchatelier brigade so vociferous, that people couldn't be bothered to go and support the team?
My view is that many ( not all, I'm sure that there are fans who are so disillusioned with the Belgium ownership who passionately believe that not renewing their season tickets will force them out) supporters are using the Belgium takeover as an excuse for not renewing their season tickets. A drop in division, less attractive football are all good reasons. Family commitments, better things to do, are also fine. A concern about the people on Life who are very vociferous on removing the Belgiums hardly ever go and watch Charlton. I'm sure they have Charlton to their heart, and this is to be commended, but it's not the same as seeing game after game.
I have watched the development of Crofts and Foley through pre-season. I must admit that in the first two games Crofts was poor, giving the ball away, and generally looked off the pace and making poor decisions. Foley, on the other hand had decent games against the Russians in midfield, and against the Israelis at right back, and to me he looked more likely to get a contract. Having seen both players against Ipswich and the Dutch team at The Valley, Crofts has made excellent progress, and Foley did well. So what do I see on Charlton Life, several lifers referring to both players being called Twedledum and Twedeldee, people wanting to insult Charlton players. I found the whole series of comments pathetic. If Russell Slade feels they are good enough for Charlton I will give them my full support.
Arriving home in Altincham last night, I logged on and looked at the match thread, and read a comment that Russell Slade had chosen a team in protest at the transfer policy by the club. Within 10 comments it was a fact. A problem I have with CL is that a weird rumour becomes fact for many people, and they believe it. This then builds and builds until it becomes almost histerical. So what are the facts?
I've rambled on long enough, and I guess most people want to know if I am a Roland and Katrien appeaser, so they can give me dog's abuse, That will have to wait until the close of the transfer window.
AA, fair play for posting this response, because you knew you were in for pelters!
I have highlighted a paragraph that I totally agree with and also find impossible to comprehend. I fully understand people's dislike of RD and KM, but they are becoming so blinkered in their hatred that they actually come to believe some of the shit they are posting. Russell Slade actually stated that they were experimenting with a different formation in the first half and yet you have idiots on here actually believing that it was a protest against the transfer policy, it's so incredible, it's laughable!
I'm also glad that Tracey has been on CL today to say how well the after match player signing went, which shot a few down on here trying to make out it was poor!
To give the team the support the way you do is commendable and I share your thoughts that fans should still be supporting the team whatever they think of the regime!
I see your summing up of Crofts and Foley has also been questioned, I have been to the last three PSF's and in the last two have been impressed with Crofts and Foley will be a useful squad member. They are both seasoned professionals who will do well in L1.
Let's hope for some new signings this week and three points on Saturday!
Al
Cheers for your support, but what I'm trying to do with my post is that football is not rational, it's in my blood and everyone else's. I can understand the frustration of everyone's complaints about the owners, some of which I agree with, but with no sign of them leaving what do I do? Become a bitter Belgium hater, giving up my season ticket? I have decided not to do that. Some people will say that I'm not a true Charlton fan, but I will continue to support the club that I love. I know that I will get pelters, just as well I live in Manchester!
Personally i believe you should carry on with your loyal support for whatever reason you like. You don't need to justify it.
I am not so sure you should criticise other supporters who think differently however. For example you mention the Jimenez/Slater era as worse than this lot.
Jimenez/Slater got us promoted, this lot got us relegated.
So on that basis I disagree with you, and I believe you would be gracious in accepting other supporters are sincere in believing it is this regime to blame for our demise and distress.
I thank you for your response, Seth, I've always enjoyed your reports from the youth team games. I have noticed a change in your attitude towards the club in the last few months. I don't think that my comment about Jimenez /Slater was ever meant to be a critism of fans, I was just commenting on my opinion of the owners. If this was viewed as a criticism of fans who thought they did a good job I apologise.
Now that I don't have a season ticket I doubt I'll be allowed entry to youth team games.
OK, People are asking me to respond to my original post, so here goes! I have renewed my season ticket and I am continuing to support Valley Gold. Last season, living in South Manchester, I missed 5 games all season, home and away. I went to Austria to support the team, I was the only Charlton supporter, in Pinkafeld, to support the team against the Russians. In Birkfeild I was the only UK based supporter against the Israelis, although their were some enthusiastic Italian and Austrian Charlton fans, including Vienna addick and his son. I would recommend these European pre-season tours to any fan. I had a fantastic time in Vienna, visiting 3 art galleries, taking a selfie with Klimt's kiss in the Belvedere museum, and generally enjoying myself, especially hiring a car for the second game, and visiting Hundertwasser's spa village at Blumeau, a cross between Park Guell in Barcellona and Hobbiton, fantastic. The reason I'm going on about the tour is that I was amazed that I was the only one. Coventry played Sturm Graz in the same stadium in Pinkafeld, and they bought around 30 supporters. Has the poison got so deep, the anti- Duchatelier brigade so vociferous, that people couldn't be bothered to go and support the team?
My view is that many ( not all, I'm sure that there are fans who are so disillusioned with the Belgium ownership who passionately believe that not renewing their season tickets will force them out) supporters are using the Belgium takeover as an excuse for not renewing their season tickets. A drop in division, less attractive football are all good reasons. Family commitments, better things to do, are also fine. A concern about the people on Life who are very vociferous on removing the Belgiums hardly ever go and watch Charlton. I'm sure they have Charlton to their heart, and this is to be commended, but it's not the same as seeing game after game.
I have watched the development of Crofts and Foley through pre-season. I must admit that in the first two games Crofts was poor, giving the ball away, and generally looked off the pace and making poor decisions. Foley, on the other hand had decent games against the Russians in midfield, and against the Israelis at right back, and to me he looked more likely to get a contract. Having seen both players against Ipswich and the Dutch team at The Valley, Crofts has made excellent progress, and Foley did well. So what do I see on Charlton Life, several lifers referring to both players being called Twedledum and Twedeldee, people wanting to insult Charlton players. I found the whole series of comments pathetic. If Russell Slade feels they are good enough for Charlton I will give them my full support.
Arriving home in Altincham last night, I logged on and looked at the match thread, and read a comment that Russell Slade had chosen a team in protest at the transfer policy by the club. Within 10 comments it was a fact. A problem I have with CL is that a weird rumour becomes fact for many people, and they believe it. This then builds and builds until it becomes almost histerical. So what are the facts?
I've rambled on long enough, and I guess most people want to know if I am a Roland and Katrien appeaser, so they can give me dog's abuse, That will have to wait until the close of the transfer window.
AA, fair play for posting this response, because you knew you were in for pelters!
I have highlighted a paragraph that I totally agree with and also find impossible to comprehend. I fully understand people's dislike of RD and KM, but they are becoming so blinkered in their hatred that they actually come to believe some of the shit they are posting. Russell Slade actually stated that they were experimenting with a different formation in the first half and yet you have idiots on here actually believing that it was a protest against the transfer policy, it's so incredible, it's laughable!
I'm also glad that Tracey has been on CL today to say how well the after match player signing went, which shot a few down on here trying to make out it was poor!
To give the team the support the way you do is commendable and I share your thoughts that fans should still be supporting the team whatever they think of the regime!
I see your summing up of Crofts and Foley has also been questioned, I have been to the last three PSF's and in the last two have been impressed with Crofts and Foley will be a useful squad member. They are both seasoned professionals who will do well in L1.
Let's hope for some new signings this week and three points on Saturday!
Al
Cheers for your support, but what I'm trying to do with my post is that football is not rational, it's in my blood and everyone else's. I can understand the frustration of everyone's complaints about the owners, some of which I agree with, but with no sign of them leaving what do I do? Become a bitter Belgium hater, giving up my season ticket? I have decided not to do that. Some people will say that I'm not a true Charlton fan, but I will continue to support the club that I love. I know that I will get pelters, just as well I live in Manchester!
Personally i believe you should carry on with your loyal support for whatever reason you like. You don't need to justify it.
I am not so sure you should criticise other supporters who think differently however. For example you mention the Jimenez/Slater era as worse than this lot.
Jimenez/Slater got us promoted, this lot got us relegated.
So on that basis I disagree with you, and I believe you would be gracious in accepting other supporters are sincere in believing it is this regime to blame for our demise and distress.
I thank you for your response, Seth, I've always enjoyed your reports from the youth team games. I have noticed a change in your attitude towards the club in the last few months. I don't think that my comment about Jimenez /Slater was ever meant to be a critism of fans, I was just commenting on my opinion of the owners. If this was viewed as a criticism of fans who thought they did a good job I apologise.
Now that I don't have a season ticket I doubt I'll be allowed entry to youth team games.
That's a shame, because you have shown a true support for Charlton youth teams for a long time, and comments I have respected. Sneek in over the fence?
Altrincham, you appear to be desperately clutching at straws to support your views which in all honesty you will have trouble substantiating. It is quite revealing that you are unwilling to state your views on the regime at this time. I suspect you will find more reasons not to do so at the end of August.
My views are that they are no worse or better than Jimenez and Slater, but they seem to get a lot more abuse. The appointment of Karel Frey was a monumental mistake which was compounded by keeping him in the job for far too long. But I'm in this for the long term, and am happy with the appointment of Slade. Lets hope he gets the support.
Quite simply because Jimenez retained Chris Powell as manager and whether or not you rate his ability you could not conceivably question his integrity.
Jimenez and Slater were scum in my book, but they didn't get involved in the day to day running of the club at all, certainly until they forced out Varney and Kavanagh, and even then they wanted Prothero to do it.
Despite all that they wanted to put a winning team on the pitch for their own purposes, which coincided with what fans wanted. There's no confidence that is what Duchatelet wants or at least no trust in his ability to do so. Hence the reaction he and his puppet get from a majority of fans.
If you really think so many longtime fans are giving up season tickets for other reasons I think you are deluding yourself.
For what's it's worth I don't think we will ever see Duchatelet humiliated by a judge in the way that Jimenez was, which is to his credit.
I totally agree with you that the best decision they did was to appoint Powell, and provided funds through a third source to buy a team. Then it went downhill after the funding was cut.
Funds to buy the team came from the sale of Jenkinson, which wasn't negotiated by them. In fact they cut the football budget for 2011/12 from the previous two years, but they did act as a funnel for funds to cover the inevitable operating loss, which would otherwise have been unsustainable.
Certainly until mid-2012 and to some extent 2013 the club was run on similar principles and by the same people who had run it for the preceding decade, with the two years in which Steve Waggott was nominally chief executive a minor anomaly. In reality, Kavanagh largely ran it after Varney left originally in 2008.
In other words, the discontinuity is largely the present regime, although a bullying culture below board level led to numerous departures in 2013 which paved the way for the current shambles.
OK, People are asking me to respond to my original post, so here goes! I have renewed my season ticket and I am continuing to support Valley Gold. Last season, living in South Manchester, I missed 5 games all season, home and away. I went to Austria to support the team, I was the only Charlton supporter, in Pinkafeld, to support the team against the Russians. In Birkfeild I was the only UK based supporter against the Israelis, although their were some enthusiastic Italian and Austrian Charlton fans, including Vienna addick and his son. I would recommend these European pre-season tours to any fan. I had a fantastic time in Vienna, visiting 3 art galleries, taking a selfie with Klimt's kiss in the Belvedere museum, and generally enjoying myself, especially hiring a car for the second game, and visiting Hundertwasser's spa village at Blumeau, a cross between Park Guell in Barcellona and Hobbiton, fantastic. The reason I'm going on about the tour is that I was amazed that I was the only one. Coventry played Sturm Graz in the same stadium in Pinkafeld, and they bought around 30 supporters. Has the poison got so deep, the anti- Duchatelier brigade so vociferous, that people couldn't be bothered to go and support the team?
My view is that many ( not all, I'm sure that there are fans who are so disillusioned with the Belgium ownership who passionately believe that not renewing their season tickets will force them out) supporters are using the Belgium takeover as an excuse for not renewing their season tickets. A drop in division, less attractive football are all good reasons. Family commitments, better things to do, are also fine. A concern about the people on Life who are very vociferous on removing the Belgiums hardly ever go and watch Charlton. I'm sure they have Charlton to their heart, and this is to be commended, but it's not the same as seeing game after game.
I have watched the development of Crofts and Foley through pre-season. I must admit that in the first two games Crofts was poor, giving the ball away, and generally looked off the pace and making poor decisions. Foley, on the other hand had decent games against the Russians in midfield, and against the Israelis at right back, and to me he looked more likely to get a contract. Having seen both players against Ipswich and the Dutch team at The Valley, Crofts has made excellent progress, and Foley did well. So what do I see on Charlton Life, several lifers referring to both players being called Twedledum and Twedeldee, people wanting to insult Charlton players. I found the whole series of comments pathetic. If Russell Slade feels they are good enough for Charlton I will give them my full support.
Arriving home in Altincham last night, I logged on and looked at the match thread, and read a comment that Russell Slade had chosen a team in protest at the transfer policy by the club. Within 10 comments it was a fact. A problem I have with CL is that a weird rumour becomes fact for many people, and they believe it. This then builds and builds until it becomes almost histerical. So what are the facts?
I've rambled on long enough, and I guess most people want to know if I am a Roland and Katrien appeaser, so they can give me dog's abuse, That will have to wait until the close of the transfer window.
AA, fair play for posting this response, because you knew you were in for pelters!
I have highlighted a paragraph that I totally agree with and also find impossible to comprehend. I fully understand people's dislike of RD and KM, but they are becoming so blinkered in their hatred that they actually come to believe some of the shit they are posting. Russell Slade actually stated that they were experimenting with a different formation in the first half and yet you have idiots on here actually believing that it was a protest against the transfer policy, it's so incredible, it's laughable!
I'm also glad that Tracey has been on CL today to say how well the after match player signing went, which shot a few down on here trying to make out it was poor!
To give the team the support the way you do is commendable and I share your thoughts that fans should still be supporting the team whatever they think of the regime!
I see your summing up of Crofts and Foley has also been questioned, I have been to the last three PSF's and in the last two have been impressed with Crofts and Foley will be a useful squad member. They are both seasoned professionals who will do well in L1.
Let's hope for some new signings this week and three points on Saturday!
Al
Cheers for your support, but what I'm trying to do with my post is that football is not rational, it's in my blood and everyone else's. I can understand the frustration of everyone's complaints about the owners, some of which I agree with, but with no sign of them leaving what do I do? Become a bitter Belgium hater, giving up my season ticket? I have decided not to do that. Some people will say that I'm not a true Charlton fan, but I will continue to support the club that I love. I know that I will get pelters, just as well I live in Manchester!
Personally i believe you should carry on with your loyal support for whatever reason you like. You don't need to justify it.
I am not so sure you should criticise other supporters who think differently however. For example you mention the Jimenez/Slater era as worse than this lot.
Jimenez/Slater got us promoted, this lot got us relegated.
So on that basis I disagree with you, and I believe you would be gracious in accepting other supporters are sincere in believing it is this regime to blame for our demise and distress.
I thank you for your response, Seth, I've always enjoyed your reports from the youth team games. I have noticed a change in your attitude towards the club in the last few months. I don't think that my comment about Jimenez /Slater was ever meant to be a critism of fans, I was just commenting on my opinion of the owners. If this was viewed as a criticism of fans who thought they did a good job I apologise.
Now that I don't have a season ticket I doubt I'll be allowed entry to youth team games.
AA I'm not going to get involved in a 'my dick is bigger than yours' discussion about the support I have given this club since the late 50s. However if you cannot grasp the overwhelming reason why STs are down 50% and still need to wait until the transfer window shuts to pass judgement on this evil regime which has ripped the heart out of the club with no time for us oldies then I'm totally dumbfounded
Like comments "toxic regime" I have a massive problem with " ripped the heart out of the club" cliche. It's a very emotive statement, but what does it actually mean. It certainly hasn't done that for me, or several supporters I'm in contact with. We all have our hearts fully focussed on Charlton, so let me know, and this isn't a glib request, what ripping the heart out of the club actually means for you.
Ok let's look at a definition of 'heart'; it's the hub or nucleus of something. So what's that in relation to a football club? It's the whole package of ownership, management, staff, players and last but not least the fans.
For me it's the bond between those running the club and the fans, not customers, FANS, which is now in complete disconnect due to a hair brained experiment which has completely failed.
It's the feeling of everyone pulling in the same direction with a common goal and that has to come from the top down. Again complete failure with the lies that have been spun by a CEO totally out of her depth who had no respect for our traditions and history.
Crazy managerial instability with the appointment of a succession of network puppets each one deemed to be the right appointment, huh, following the sacking of a 'Charlton at heart man' who had managed to give us a taste of success.
The constant turnover of players and clear out of the old guard like Yann and Morro who we could all relate to, replaced mainly by no marks who weren't up to the rigours of the Championship.
The dismissal / resignations of countless long time club employees with years of experience of how the club ticked, whom were also fans.
By their actions and total mismanagement of a once proud football club, that was held up as the prime example of how a club should be run, the regime has turned us into laughing stock because as I said the heart of the club has been ripped out!
People don't protest by not going to Austria. in fact the obverse. If they felt that strongly about it, they would spend money to make the point. It's because our fan base is falling because of other off field reasons, whatever they may be, and again, I will state that I'm not criticising anyone for not going to a football game, there's lots of other stuff going on in people's lives.
Bristol Rovers took 800 out to Spain, Oxford took 600 out to Spain/Portugal. Numbers like these tell me that the clubs wanted fans out there and advertised trips.
I repeatedly rang the club, who put me through to the training ground. Repeatedly they did not ring me back. Eventually the club revealed details a week before.
People would have gone to Austria if we were told a lot longer than a week before, people have to work and make arrangements blah blah blah.
AA, i am fully in awe of your dedication to the whole thing - but, for Gods sake, go to the Opticians - and also maybe visit the Psychiatrist too. For one, how can you even closely glorify Foley and Crofts when we have just lost Cousins and JBG and Pope. For christs sake man, open your eyes and smell the coffee- you are very welcome to your opinions, but, my god, they are shit.
Cousins, JBG, were always going to go, I was disappointed with Pope, but are you surprised, with the abuse he received on CL in the earlier part of his career?
You are a moron.
So Pope is going to leave a football club because of a message board.
AA, i am fully in awe of your dedication to the whole thing - but, for Gods sake, go to the Opticians - and also maybe visit the Psychiatrist too. For one, how can you even closely glorify Foley and Crofts when we have just lost Cousins and JBG and Pope. For christs sake man, open your eyes and smell the coffee- you are very welcome to your opinions, but, my god, they are shit.
I'm in total agreement, most of my friends think that my opinions are shit!
Following a fun filled, if exhausting weekend with our family of 11, I'm trying hard to catch up with what's been happening in my absence.....not a lot as far as the transfer rumours thread is concerned but some interesting developments in the " AA & Essex Al versus the Rest" match.
I've managed to scan through all the previous posts since this started last November and am pleased to find there is at least a degree of consistency ie I still agree wholeheartedly with the posts I "liked".
I believe another Lifer asked the question as to whether posters' opinions have changed in the past 8 months & a poll on this would be interesting to say the least.
For instance, I have an inkling that a certain respected member from somewhere just south of Watford has seemingly found the road to Damascus ( in his lorry ?) & would love to learn the main reasons why his views have changed ....Are you out there, Saul /Paul?
At this moment in time, with only 6 days until the start of yet another season, I fervently wish that I could feel that old, familiar tingle but it's just not in evidence. I've tried my utmost to coax it back, but even that signed pic of JJ isn't hitting the spot. And I know that watching the Play Off Final DVD again will only move me towards the box of tissues....
Seriously, my passion for this football club of ours hasn't waned & my attendance at both home & away matches is a gimme but the spark is sadly missing. So, if someone tells me I should be giving my unconditional support to ALL aspects of and everyone concerned with running my club, because that's what supporters DO, I'll happily respond that THEY can't be a true supporter - because those very individuals who are sadly, the current stewards of Charlton Athletic are a million miles adrift of any sane football supporter's vision for their club. This was clear to the majority ( yes, I DO believe it is the majority) of Addicks back in November, and the picture is more clearly defined 8 months later ; more black & white than ever.
Four letter words have been used to describe our fragrant CEO & her Gepetto but it is FROM the regime that the most pertinent ones have emanated - "lies" and "spin" being the first to come to mind. And it is on these very words that this pathetic excuse for stewardship is based. How many statements have been vomited from their mouths only to be denied at a later date ? It has become a way of life for them & I seriously wonder whether they can now recognise the truth from the untruths.
Whether RS will become the latest fall guy, like managers, players, management staff etc before him, remains to be seen. Whether there ARE players willing to join the circus where even spinning plates are seeking a transfer, also remains to be seen.
But to use one of AA's words describing the atmosphere at The Valley last season, our club is toxic at this moment in time.
And all but the serial Addickted ( heaven help us all ) plus the players desperate to find employment as time runs out for them / too loyal to ply their trade elsewhere will avoid Floyd Road until the " All clear" siren has heralded the departure of those that have unsuccessfully tried to poison OUR club. THEY and they alone are to blame for the current desperate situation but WE can & will stand together to bring CAFC back where it belongs...in all our hearts.
I am truly gobsmacked, altrincham. The vast majority of the points you make are your opinions of other Charlton fans in general, and genuinely bemused, angry and upset CL posters in particular. There is nothing said at all about RD, KM, TK, RM, either in defence of their stewardship of the club or in acknowledgement of their failings. I respect your loyalty to the club and the team but your lack of critical objectivity about the damage wrought by Duchatelet and his regime is staggering. Each to their own, and all that, but please take off the blinkers and at least see them for the poison they are, even if you are prepared to overlook their shortcomings in the interests of supporting the team.
By the way, your comments about many non-ST renewers just using the regime as an excuse are, in my view, outrageously wide of the mark.
You make a very coherent arguement, which I generally support. The club has not been run well for several years now, long before RD and KM. I thought the ownership of Jimenez and Slater was as bad if not worse, but for some reason they never seemed to suffer the same abuse. But I'm a blinkered supporter, that's what we do, and I'll continue to support the team to a point when I think, that's not right, but I haven't reached that point yet.
Why did THOUSANDS scream liar at squirrel face at the Burnley game>
Why have 5000 people not renewed their season tickets?
You do not have a clue, no doubt you supported the appointment of Karel Fraeye.
OK, People are asking me to respond to my original post, so here goes! I have renewed my season ticket and I am continuing to support Valley Gold. Last season, living in South Manchester, I missed 5 games all season, home and away. I went to Austria to support the team, I was the only Charlton supporter, in Pinkafeld, to support the team against the Russians. In Birkfeild I was the only UK based supporter against the Israelis, although their were some enthusiastic Italian and Austrian Charlton fans, including Vienna addick and his son. I would recommend these European pre-season tours to any fan. I had a fantastic time in Vienna, visiting 3 art galleries, taking a selfie with Klimt's kiss in the Belvedere museum, and generally enjoying myself, especially hiring a car for the second game, and visiting Hundertwasser's spa village at Blumeau, a cross between Park Guell in Barcellona and Hobbiton, fantastic. The reason I'm going on about the tour is that I was amazed that I was the only one. Coventry played Sturm Graz in the same stadium in Pinkafeld, and they bought around 30 supporters. Has the poison got so deep, the anti- Duchatelier brigade so vociferous, that people couldn't be bothered to go and support the team?
My view is that many ( not all, I'm sure that there are fans who are so disillusioned with the Belgium ownership who passionately believe that not renewing their season tickets will force them out) supporters are using the Belgium takeover as an excuse for not renewing their season tickets. A drop in division, less attractive football are all good reasons. Family commitments, better things to do, are also fine. A concern about the people on Life who are very vociferous on removing the Belgiums hardly ever go and watch Charlton. I'm sure they have Charlton to their heart, and this is to be commended, but it's not the same as seeing game after game.
I have watched the development of Crofts and Foley through pre-season. I must admit that in the first two games Crofts was poor, giving the ball away, and generally looked off the pace and making poor decisions. Foley, on the other hand had decent games against the Russians in midfield, and against the Israelis at right back, and to me he looked more likely to get a contract. Having seen both players against Ipswich and the Dutch team at The Valley, Crofts has made excellent progress, and Foley did well. So what do I see on Charlton Life, several lifers referring to both players being called Twedledum and Twedeldee, people wanting to insult Charlton players. I found the whole series of comments pathetic. If Russell Slade feels they are good enough for Charlton I will give them my full support.
Arriving home in Altincham last night, I logged on and looked at the match thread, and read a comment that Russell Slade had chosen a team in protest at the transfer policy by the club. Within 10 comments it was a fact. A problem I have with CL is that a weird rumour becomes fact for many people, and they believe it. This then builds and builds until it becomes almost histerical. So what are the facts?
I've rambled on long enough, and I guess most people want to know if I am a Roland and Katrien appeaser, so they can give me dog's abuse, That will have to wait until the close of the transfer window.
I don't agree with much of what you wrote but fair play for going to the time to post, and, knowing it would be controversial.
One thing I do agree with is that things can get whipped up on here and elsewhere and rumours/ half truths become facts, but there is enough smoke and fire now surely about this regime.
I find it interesting you are giving them to the end of this transfer window before deciding whether you are an appeaser. Why this particular transfer window may I ask? They have been in charge through many and to date managed to dismantle a team that finished 9th to a team that has been relegated, whilst churning through 10's of players and losing millions in the process. If the end of this window sees more disastrous decisions then do you give them to the end of January and ad infinitum. They have bought the club 'to its knees', quoting yourself and yet you still give them more time because we are not yet dead?
As for people to renewing for non regime reasons, to me they are all intertwined. Would our season ticket renewal rate be higher if not for relegation - yes. We're the regime responsible for relegation - yes. Simple in my book.
Following a fun filled, if exhausting weekend with our family of 11, I'm trying hard to catch up with what's been happening in my absence.....not a lot as far as the transfer rumours thread is concerned but some interesting developments in the " AA & Essex Al versus the Rest" match.
I've managed to scan through all the previous posts since this started last November and am pleased to find there is at least a degree of consistency ie I still agree wholeheartedly with the posts I "liked".
I believe another Lifer asked the question as to whether posters' opinions have changed in the past 8 months & a poll on this would be interesting to say the least.
For instance, I have an inkling that a certain respected member from somewhere just south of Watford has seemingly found the road to Damascus ( in his lorry ?) & would love to learn the main reasons why his views have changed ....Are you out there, Saul /Paul?
At this moment in time, with only 6 days until the start of yet another season, I fervently wish that I could feel that old, familiar tingle but it's just not in evidence. I've tried my utmost to coax it back, but even that signed pic of JJ isn't hitting the spot. And I know that watching the Play Off Final DVD again will only move me towards the box of tissues....
Seriously, my passion for this football club of ours hasn't waned & my attendance at both home & away matches is a gimme but the spark is sadly missing. So, if someone tells me I should be giving my unconditional support to ALL aspects of and everyone concerned with running my club, because that's what supporters DO, I'll happily respond that THEY can't be a true supporter - because those very individuals who are sadly, the current stewards of Charlton Athletic are a million miles adrift of any sane football supporter's vision for their club. This was clear to the majority ( yes, I DO believe it is the majority) of Addicks back in November, and the picture is more clearly defined 8 months later ; more black & white than ever.
Four letter words have been used to describe our fragrant CEO & her Gepetto but it is FROM the regime that the most pertinent ones have emanated - "lies" and "spin" being the first to come to mind. And it is on these very words that this pathetic excuse for stewardship is based. How many statements have been vomited from their mouths only to be denied at a later date ? It has become a way of life for them & I seriously wonder whether they can now recognise the truth from the untruths.
Whether RS will become the latest fall guy, like managers, players, management staff etc before him, remains to be seen. Whether there ARE players willing to join the circus where even spinning plates are seeking a transfer, also remains to be seen.
But to use one of AA's words describing the atmosphere at The Valley last season, our club is toxic at this moment in time.
And all but the serial Addickted ( heaven help us all ) plus the players desperate to find employment as time runs out for them / too loyal to ply their trade elsewhere will avoid Floyd Road until the " All clear" siren has heralded the departure of those that have unsuccessfully tried to poison OUR club. THEY and they alone are to blame for the current desperate situation but WE can & will stand together to bring CAFC back where it belongs...in all our hearts.
Support the team, NOT the regime !
The funny thing is that I had the spat with Altinchamaddick and his ridiculous mate, but throughout the game I was sat with EssexAl, another dreadful apologist.
Al is alright though, off of a message board he talks sense.
Following a fun filled, if exhausting weekend with our family of 11, I'm trying hard to catch up with what's been happening in my absence.....not a lot as far as the transfer rumours thread is concerned but some interesting developments in the " AA & Essex Al versus the Rest" match.
I've managed to scan through all the previous posts since this started last November and am pleased to find there is at least a degree of consistency ie I still agree wholeheartedly with the posts I "liked".
I believe another Lifer asked the question as to whether posters' opinions have changed in the past 8 months & a poll on this would be interesting to say the least.
For instance, I have an inkling that a certain respected member from somewhere just south of Watford has seemingly found the road to Damascus ( in his lorry ?) & would love to learn the main reasons why his views have changed ....Are you out there, Saul /Paul?
At this moment in time, with only 6 days until the start of yet another season, I fervently wish that I could feel that old, familiar tingle but it's just not in evidence. I've tried my utmost to coax it back, but even that signed pic of JJ isn't hitting the spot. And I know that watching the Play Off Final DVD again will only move me towards the box of tissues....
Seriously, my passion for this football club of ours hasn't waned & my attendance at both home & away matches is a gimme but the spark is sadly missing. So, if someone tells me I should be giving my unconditional support to ALL aspects of and everyone concerned with running my club, because that's what supporters DO, I'll happily respond that THEY can't be a true supporter - because those very individuals who are sadly, the current stewards of Charlton Athletic are a million miles adrift of any sane football supporter's vision for their club. This was clear to the majority ( yes, I DO believe it is the majority) of Addicks back in November, and the picture is more clearly defined 8 months later ; more black & white than ever.
Four letter words have been used to describe our fragrant CEO & her Gepetto but it is FROM the regime that the most pertinent ones have emanated - "lies" and "spin" being the first to come to mind. And it is on these very words that this pathetic excuse for stewardship is based. How many statements have been vomited from their mouths only to be denied at a later date ? It has become a way of life for them & I seriously wonder whether they can now recognise the truth from the untruths.
Whether RS will become the latest fall guy, like managers, players, management staff etc before him, remains to be seen. Whether there ARE players willing to join the circus where even spinning plates are seeking a transfer, also remains to be seen.
But to use one of AA's words describing the atmosphere at The Valley last season, our club is toxic at this moment in time.
And all but the serial Addickted ( heaven help us all ) plus the players desperate to find employment as time runs out for them / too loyal to ply their trade elsewhere will avoid Floyd Road until the " All clear" siren has heralded the departure of those that have unsuccessfully tried to poison OUR club. THEY and they alone are to blame for the current desperate situation but WE can & will stand together to bring CAFC back where it belongs...in all our hearts.
OK, People are asking me to respond to my original post, so here goes! I have renewed my season ticket and I am continuing to support Valley Gold. Last season, living in South Manchester, I missed 5 games all season, home and away. I went to Austria to support the team, I was the only Charlton supporter, in Pinkafeld, to support the team against the Russians. In Birkfeild I was the only UK based supporter against the Israelis, although their were some enthusiastic Italian and Austrian Charlton fans, including Vienna addick and his son. I would recommend these European pre-season tours to any fan. I had a fantastic time in Vienna, visiting 3 art galleries, taking a selfie with Klimt's kiss in the Belvedere museum, and generally enjoying myself, especially hiring a car for the second game, and visiting Hundertwasser's spa village at Blumeau, a cross between Park Guell in Barcellona and Hobbiton, fantastic. The reason I'm going on about the tour is that I was amazed that I was the only one. Coventry played Sturm Graz in the same stadium in Pinkafeld, and they bought around 30 supporters. Has the poison got so deep, the anti- Duchatelier brigade so vociferous, that people couldn't be bothered to go and support the team?
My view is that many ( not all, I'm sure that there are fans who are so disillusioned with the Belgium ownership who passionately believe that not renewing their season tickets will force them out) supporters are using the Belgium takeover as an excuse for not renewing their season tickets. A drop in division, less attractive football are all good reasons. Family commitments, better things to do, are also fine. A concern about the people on Life who are very vociferous on removing the Belgiums hardly ever go and watch Charlton. I'm sure they have Charlton to their heart, and this is to be commended, but it's not the same as seeing game after game.
I have watched the development of Crofts and Foley through pre-season. I must admit that in the first two games Crofts was poor, giving the ball away, and generally looked off the pace and making poor decisions. Foley, on the other hand had decent games against the Russians in midfield, and against the Israelis at right back, and to me he looked more likely to get a contract. Having seen both players against Ipswich and the Dutch team at The Valley, Crofts has made excellent progress, and Foley did well. So what do I see on Charlton Life, several lifers referring to both players being called Twedledum and Twedeldee, people wanting to insult Charlton players. I found the whole series of comments pathetic. If Russell Slade feels they are good enough for Charlton I will give them my full support.
Arriving home in Altincham last night, I logged on and looked at the match thread, and read a comment that Russell Slade had chosen a team in protest at the transfer policy by the club. Within 10 comments it was a fact. A problem I have with CL is that a weird rumour becomes fact for many people, and they believe it. This then builds and builds until it becomes almost histerical. So what are the facts?
I've rambled on long enough, and I guess most people want to know if I am a Roland and Katrien appeaser, so they can give me dog's abuse, That will have to wait until the close of the transfer window.
I'm sorry, but all I am getting from this is somebody who appears to live in a bubble, where the sole raison d'être is to follow the team anywhere and everywhere in some kind of holier than thou crusade. Here the ills of the club are secondary and therefore those passionate concern and fears for the club can be patronisingly dismissed as hysteria. This isn't meant to come across as the dogs abuse you are expecting. We all have a common bond as Charlton fans and we can' t all be expected to see things the same way. But people with far more wit and intelligence than me have articulated the dreadful malaise of the club and to me, as I have said before, there are none so blind as those who will not see. Keep following the team and let the rest take care of itself is not a mantra I feel comfortable with.
5 league matches before the end of the transfer window in August.
Another 6 matches to allow them to blend in together. We arrive at the start of October to a message saying "we have identified the players we need and will purchase them in January".
It appears to me that we are following the same strategy as the previous seasons but with an English manager and a couple of English free transfers.
Following a fun filled, if exhausting weekend with our family of 11, I'm trying hard to catch up with what's been happening in my absence.....not a lot as far as the transfer rumours thread is concerned but some interesting developments in the " AA & Essex Al versus the Rest" match.
I've managed to scan through all the previous posts since this started last November and am pleased to find there is at least a degree of consistency ie I still agree wholeheartedly with the posts I "liked".
I believe another Lifer asked the question as to whether posters' opinions have changed in the past 8 months & a poll on this would be interesting to say the least.
For instance, I have an inkling that a certain respected member from somewhere just south of Watford has seemingly found the road to Damascus ( in his lorry ?) & would love to learn the main reasons why his views have changed ....Are you out there, Saul /Paul?
At this moment in time, with only 6 days until the start of yet another season, I fervently wish that I could feel that old, familiar tingle but it's just not in evidence. I've tried my utmost to coax it back, but even that signed pic of JJ isn't hitting the spot. And I know that watching the Play Off Final DVD again will only move me towards the box of tissues....
Seriously, my passion for this football club of ours hasn't waned & my attendance at both home & away matches is a gimme but the spark is sadly missing. So, if someone tells me I should be giving my unconditional support to ALL aspects of and everyone concerned with running my club, because that's what supporters DO, I'll happily respond that THEY can't be a true supporter - because those very individuals who are sadly, the current stewards of Charlton Athletic are a million miles adrift of any sane football supporter's vision for their club. This was clear to the majority ( yes, I DO believe it is the majority) of Addicks back in November, and the picture is more clearly defined 8 months later ; more black & white than ever.
Four letter words have been used to describe our fragrant CEO & her Gepetto but it is FROM the regime that the most pertinent ones have emanated - "lies" and "spin" being the first to come to mind. And it is on these very words that this pathetic excuse for stewardship is based. How many statements have been vomited from their mouths only to be denied at a later date ? It has become a way of life for them & I seriously wonder whether they can now recognise the truth from the untruths.
Whether RS will become the latest fall guy, like managers, players, management staff etc before him, remains to be seen. Whether there ARE players willing to join the circus where even spinning plates are seeking a transfer, also remains to be seen.
But to use one of AA's words describing the atmosphere at The Valley last season, our club is toxic at this moment in time.
And all but the serial Addickted ( heaven help us all ) plus the players desperate to find employment as time runs out for them / too loyal to ply their trade elsewhere will avoid Floyd Road until the " All clear" siren has heralded the departure of those that have unsuccessfully tried to poison OUR club. THEY and they alone are to blame for the current desperate situation but WE can & will stand together to bring CAFC back where it belongs...in all our hearts.
Support the team, NOT the regime !
The funny thing is that I had the spat with Altinchamaddick and his ridiculous mate, but throughout the game I was sat with EssexAl, another dreadful apologist.
Al is alright though, off of a message board he talks sense.
I let him sit next to me and then he flags me for abuse, tosser!
The fact that someone thinks most people are not renewing for life reasons or because we purely because of relegation is laughable...
When we went down in 09, I was also about to become a dad, I still renewed...went from yeovil to Stockport to Leeds and in between. I didn't mind league one for the away days, the football was shite generally
I am not renewing this time, I will be doing aways... Ask yourself why this is the case. Why is it that on my last few trips tonth the valley I was treated like a suspicious criminal, all because my season card didn't work properly, my child being searched rigorously, the constant disparaging comments by Katrien and Murray, the absence of duche....the lies and constant bullshit. The disconnect between fans and players, the fact only 1000 people bothered with a home friendly....
I refuse to be herded because for the first time in 20 years, I'm not renewing, I have seen shit shit and more shit in that time, I was still made to feel valued and welcome at the valley, I don't feel that way now.
It is not Charlton Athletic, it is a shit science experiment based on an out of date periodic table.
Okay, respect to @altrinchamaddick for travelling to Austria. But for me, as @Six-a-bag-of-nuts puts it, people far more articulate than me have put this into context over and over again. Why is this transfer window a better point to judge these people, after screwing up so royally in every other one they have been in charge? Because Katrien says so? Come off it, do we need to go back over her many other lies and untruths to get to the sort of person she is? We have effectively wasted the summer through dithering over managerial appointments and signings, though we have emptied the squad to a very unsafe level. Bury is saturday. We could have been raring to go for that one, but saturday against Waalwijk,we were experimenting with other formations, as we don't have a proper starting XI, and consequently, a given formation. Okay, winning the first game isn't imperative, but where is the logic in doing things so badly we'r not even ready - it's not as if we didn't know the date of the first match a while back. There is a Disney film called Tomorrowland, in which one of the characters played by Hugh Grant suggests the world ending will come about because for 99% of the population, it is easier to let it happen, as this involves no effort, than to actually get up and fight against the tide, and sadly, a lot of the people (not necessarily Alty and Essex_Al) seem happy to renew and sit back to watch the dross, as trying to get Roland to go would be too much like hard work. I have mates who regard the football at the Valley as a fun gap in the afternoon which they surround with drinking in Greenwich, and I think it's a valid enough thing to do. However, the thrust of this post is that you are 'happy' for Roland, Meire et al to stay. One of your arguements is that the Spivs were worse. Sorry, but even if that were true (and they took us straight back up), how does that instill feelings of happiness with Roland. It's not just Karel Fraeye, though that was a new low even for Charlton, but nearly every managerial decision has been crap (or why did we change so often), it's not Katrien lying over and over again, and even suggesting the club was overstaffed with people who didn't have the necessary skills (unlike herself?), or Roland's rant that there are fans who want the club to fail (ha ha, says who!!), or some of our more moronic transfer dealings (Henderson free, Kermo cheap, Polish Pete and Thuram the clown), it's the entire running of the club. And that cannot be any sort of justification for happy.
Following a fun filled, if exhausting weekend with our family of 11, I'm trying hard to catch up with what's been happening in my absence.....not a lot as far as the transfer rumours thread is concerned but some interesting developments in the " AA & Essex Al versus the Rest" match.
I've managed to scan through all the previous posts since this started last November and am pleased to find there is at least a degree of consistency ie I still agree wholeheartedly with the posts I "liked".
I believe another Lifer asked the question as to whether posters' opinions have changed in the past 8 months & a poll on this would be interesting to say the least.
For instance, I have an inkling that a certain respected member from somewhere just south of Watford has seemingly found the road to Damascus ( in his lorry ?) & would love to learn the main reasons why his views have changed ....Are you out there, Saul /Paul?
At this moment in time, with only 6 days until the start of yet another season, I fervently wish that I could feel that old, familiar tingle but it's just not in evidence. I've tried my utmost to coax it back, but even that signed pic of JJ isn't hitting the spot. And I know that watching the Play Off Final DVD again will only move me towards the box of tissues....
Seriously, my passion for this football club of ours hasn't waned & my attendance at both home & away matches is a gimme but the spark is sadly missing. So, if someone tells me I should be giving my unconditional support to ALL aspects of and everyone concerned with running my club, because that's what supporters DO, I'll happily respond that THEY can't be a true supporter - because those very individuals who are sadly, the current stewards of Charlton Athletic are a million miles adrift of any sane football supporter's vision for their club. This was clear to the majority ( yes, I DO believe it is the majority) of Addicks back in November, and the picture is more clearly defined 8 months later ; more black & white than ever.
Four letter words have been used to describe our fragrant CEO & her Gepetto but it is FROM the regime that the most pertinent ones have emanated - "lies" and "spin" being the first to come to mind. And it is on these very words that this pathetic excuse for stewardship is based. How many statements have been vomited from their mouths only to be denied at a later date ? It has become a way of life for them & I seriously wonder whether they can now recognise the truth from the untruths.
Whether RS will become the latest fall guy, like managers, players, management staff etc before him, remains to be seen. Whether there ARE players willing to join the circus where even spinning plates are seeking a transfer, also remains to be seen.
But to use one of AA's words describing the atmosphere at The Valley last season, our club is toxic at this moment in time.
And all but the serial Addickted ( heaven help us all ) plus the players desperate to find employment as time runs out for them / too loyal to ply their trade elsewhere will avoid Floyd Road until the " All clear" siren has heralded the departure of those that have unsuccessfully tried to poison OUR club. THEY and they alone are to blame for the current desperate situation but WE can & will stand together to bring CAFC back where it belongs...in all our hearts.
Support the team, NOT the regime !
The funny thing is that I had the spat with Altinchamaddick and his ridiculous mate, but throughout the game I was sat with EssexAl, another dreadful apologist.
Al is alright though, off of a message board he talks sense.
I let him sit next to me and then he flags me for abuse, tosser!
Shut up, I'll apologise with a beer at Walsall, you're easily bought!
My personal philosophy is, I live in SE7, there's football every other Saturday in a lovely stadium, involving the team I've supported since I was a kid, and it costs £150 for a whole season. I'll be renewing, but I understand if others don't want to. After all, we're being run ineptly.
This isn't the club I supported as a kid. The game moves on of course and it's never gonna be like it was but there's a happy medium and these shitebags have taken the club in a direction that is just not what Charlton is about to me and I don't want to fund it. I don't understand how those unhappy with the ownership can contribute even a penny to them...even though he's minted logically every penny and pound more income from the fans is less incentive to sell even if not the main driver for this lunatic freak weirdo who is leveraging the club into dangerous levels of debt. But each to their own and it will be really bad if fans start becoming divided as that's when the regime will win.
Will be a few months if that until Sladegate occurs and the protests ramp up again and hopefully the penny will drop for those unconvinced that this mob are taken us nowhere but down the football leagues and into ever increasing debt by the week. We are really in dangerous territory under this mob through their utter incompetence, lack of shame and complete apathy and disinterest about the football side of this football club.
Fair enough. The debt aspect is by far the most concerning for me. And yet, season ticket prices are as low (compared to the market at large) as they've ever been since I started supporting. They're giving with one hand, taking with another. It's confusing. I'll make my mind up from the stands (North Lower this season, thanks Katrien! )
I'll also add, non-controversially, that English football is fucked.
I can't imagine that the low season ticket prices are some act of altruism. A significant portion of the season tickets sold have pretty much been given away (£7.61 per game) - this isn't some act of generosity, it's because the impact of their awful decision making has reduced demand to such an extent that they have no choice but to price them at half the cost of the average non league ticket in order to get people through the door.
I would much rather be paying a lot more for a season ticket watching a successful Charlton side than £175 to watch a Charlton team representing a club that I struggle to recognise to the extent that I'm fairly indifferent as to whether they win or not.
I won't be going to Charlton home games as a matter of course this season, for the first time since I attended my first match in 1986. This would have been my 30th consecutive season of almost full attendance at home games. Now I wouldn't go if they paid me.
AA can suggest that I'm a West Ham fan or that I suddenly have better things to do - the fact that he takes a reasonable tone when doing so makes it no less insulting. Few of us are as dedicated in supporting our team as him but many, many of us have spent a lot of time, money and invested a lot of our emotional energy into this club over the years. I have no issue with anyone that continues to go to games but I do have an enormous issue that I have been driven to the point where I don't feel that I should. I'm not prone to hyperbole and rumours and I'm certainly not looking for an excuse not to go. I have been driven to this point by an ownership with little concern for sporting success or a proud club's fans, history and reputation.
Charlton are not losing casual fans who have suddenly realised en masse that they'd prefer to go to the cinema on a Saturday afternoon, they are losing a significant chunk of their hardcore fan base who share many thousands of years of dedicated support between them. I would question the judgement of anyone that doesn't find that to be of huge concern.
At the moment I’m on the fence, but I am willing at this stage to give her the benefit of the doubt until the end of this season. Changing CEO’s mid season may cause more problems than it solves.
On July 31st 2016 you wrote:
I've rambled on long enough, and I guess most people want to know if I am a Roland and Katrien appeaser, so they can give me dog's abuse, That will have to wait until the close of the transfer window.
So, first of all you were going to pass judgement on the regime at the end of last season now you have moved that revelation to the close of the transfer window. You tease, and you are going to move the goalposts again aren't you? Because you clearly love the attention. The title of your original post gives the game away (AM I THE ONLY ONE THAT WANTS ROLAND TO STAY).
You knew damn well that title was going to attract some attention but your points outlined in that OP were valid questions and opinion all of which were answered respectfully by Prague Addick and others who hold different views.
Despite all of that and the subsequent post-Nov-2015 on-field events and the off-field antics of the disastrous CEO you would still rather hold over judgement on the regime and instead insult those fans who have 'voiced' their protest by giving up their STs for the coming season by suggesting for MANY (your word) the reason is not the regime but an excuse to give up supporting Charlton.
Was that done also to provoke a reaction or do you really believe that many fans who placed their season ticket at the foot of the Sam Bartram statue at the end of the last home game did so without a tear being shed? That was a grossly disrespectful thing to suggest AA and it was a comment too far no matter how much you want to be perceived as the flag-bearer of - how was it you put it - the silent majority?
You say you have rambled on long enough AA. Yes you have - and with your outrageous and unjustified dig at those giving up the ST's you have achieved your wish and got a reaction from me but that's it - I am not going to spend any more time on this thread waiting to see what your next attention seeking comment is going to be or which other element of the Charlton fan base you are going to insult.
Everybody who liked the original post has been identified and are now subject to a necessary but traumatic period of re-education. Stage 1: An honest and heartfelt admission of guilt before a jury of we, the people (North Stand only). Stage 2: A period of hard manual labour in exchange for the right to watch one Wycombe Wanderers match. The following comments to be chanted "A proper football team, with proper supporters, a proper football team with proper supporters" in unison 100 times at the conclusion of the match. Stage 3: Every post on Charlton Life henceforth to begin with the words " How could I have been so blind?" Stage 4: A systematic and unvarying adoption of the correct response to any dissenters from the political orthodoxy: "Fuck off and support Palace you knob".
People don't protest by not going to Austria. in fact the obverse. If they felt that strongly about it, they would spend money to make the point. It's because our fan base is falling because of other off field reasons, whatever they may be, and again, I will state that I'm not criticising anyone for not going to a football game, there's lots of other stuff going on in people's lives.
I would gamble the drop in our fanbase is materially correlated to the despair and disdain at the utter fuckmonkeys running the club into the ground. Got a daughter and nephew who can't wait to go to games and my brother wants to take his boy having never really shown an interest and the only reason I'm not going home games is 100% because of the Belgians.
Of course there will be other reasons for many but I bet if they sold and jogged on tomorrow we'd have another 7K+ season tickets sold by Tuesday tea time including 5 or so from me and mine.
Sticking to aways til they go and I resent the clowns for that and will be cursing them all the way up to Bury and back for the way they continue to sodomize our great club.
Your bet that another &k season tickets will be sold is spot on I would drive down from Chesterfield overnight to buy mine with god given tears of joy in my eyes.
Je m'en fous, if that was actually what she said is rather more like 'I don't give a fuck' rather than 'I don't care'.
That is literally true. The verb is se foutre, but, in the sense of the physical act, it is hundreds of years old and totally archaic, as I understand it. The modern verb is s'encouler.
Se foutre is the kind of language parents don't like their five year olds to use, but strong expletives are more acceptable among adults in everyday colloquial French than in English, generally. "I don't give a damn/shit" probably has about the right strength.
In any case, that is supposedly the French translation of a dialogue in Flemish Dutch, I believe.
Lecture over.
couler un bateau = to sink a ship enculer ta soeur = to fuck your sister (pronounce the "u" as in "Umberto" ) je m'en fous = I don't care
For what's it's worth I don't think we will ever see Duchatelet humiliated by a judge in the way that Jimenez was, which is to his credit.
I wouldn't be so sure of that ;-)
My hopes for the coming season are Duchatelet has a skeleton in a cupboard/laundy basket and emulates Carson Leung, the ex Birmingham City Owner who is now watching his own back in a Hong Kong Jail.
Also Phillip Green the Pension raider emulates Robert Maxwell and does a back flip with a BHS bed tied to him off his 100 million pound Yacht.
Comments
Certainly until mid-2012 and to some extent 2013 the club was run on similar principles and by the same people who had run it for the preceding decade, with the two years in which Steve Waggott was nominally chief executive a minor anomaly. In reality, Kavanagh largely ran it after Varney left originally in 2008.
In other words, the discontinuity is largely the present regime, although a bullying culture below board level led to numerous departures in 2013 which paved the way for the current shambles.
For me it's the bond between those running the club and the fans, not customers, FANS, which is now in complete disconnect due to a hair brained experiment which has completely failed.
It's the feeling of everyone pulling in the same direction with a common goal and that has to come from the top down. Again complete failure with the lies that have been spun by a CEO totally out of her depth who had no respect for our traditions and history.
Crazy managerial instability with the appointment of a succession of network puppets each one deemed to be the right appointment, huh, following the sacking of a 'Charlton at heart man' who had managed to give us a taste of success.
The constant turnover of players and clear out of the old guard like Yann and Morro who we could all relate to, replaced mainly by no marks who weren't up to the rigours of the Championship.
The dismissal / resignations of countless long time club employees with years of experience of how the club ticked, whom were also fans.
By their actions and total mismanagement of a once proud football club, that was held up as the prime example of how a club should be run, the regime has turned us into laughing stock because as I said the heart of the club has been ripped out!
I repeatedly rang the club, who put me through to the training ground. Repeatedly they did not ring me back. Eventually the club revealed details a week before.
People would have gone to Austria if we were told a lot longer than a week before, people have to work and make arrangements blah blah blah.
So Pope is going to leave a football club because of a message board.
like like like like like like like like like like
I've managed to scan through all the previous posts since this started last November and am pleased to find there is at least a degree of consistency ie I still agree wholeheartedly with the posts I "liked".
I believe another Lifer asked the question as to whether posters' opinions have changed in the past 8 months & a poll on this would be interesting to say the least.
For instance, I have an inkling that a certain respected member from somewhere just south of Watford has seemingly found the road to Damascus ( in his lorry ?) & would love to learn the main reasons why his views have changed ....Are you out there, Saul /Paul?
At this moment in time, with only 6 days until the start of yet another season, I fervently wish that I could feel that old, familiar tingle but it's just not in evidence. I've tried my utmost to coax it back, but even that signed pic of JJ isn't hitting the spot. And I know that watching the Play Off Final DVD again will only move me towards the box of tissues....
Seriously, my passion for this football club of ours hasn't waned & my attendance at both home & away matches is a gimme but the spark is sadly missing. So, if someone tells me I should be giving my unconditional support to ALL aspects of and everyone concerned with running my club, because that's what supporters DO, I'll happily respond that THEY can't be a true supporter - because those very individuals who are sadly, the current stewards of Charlton Athletic are a million miles adrift of any sane football supporter's vision for their club. This was clear to the majority ( yes, I DO believe it is the majority) of Addicks back in November, and the picture is more clearly defined 8 months later ; more black & white than ever.
Four letter words have been used to describe our fragrant CEO & her Gepetto but it is FROM the regime that the most pertinent ones have emanated - "lies" and "spin" being the first to come to mind. And it is on these very words that this pathetic excuse for stewardship is based. How many statements have been vomited from their mouths only to be denied at a later date ? It has become a way of life for them & I seriously wonder whether they can now recognise the truth from the untruths.
Whether RS will become the latest fall guy, like managers, players, management staff etc before him, remains to be seen. Whether there ARE players willing to join the circus where even spinning plates are seeking a transfer, also remains to be seen.
But to use one of AA's words describing the atmosphere at The Valley last season, our club is toxic at this moment in time.
And all but the serial Addickted ( heaven help us all ) plus the players desperate to find employment as time runs out for them / too loyal to ply their trade elsewhere will avoid Floyd Road until the " All clear" siren has heralded the departure of those that have unsuccessfully tried to poison OUR club. THEY and they alone are to blame for the current desperate situation but WE can & will stand together to bring CAFC back where it belongs...in all our hearts.
Support the team, NOT the regime !
Why have 5000 people not renewed their season tickets?
You do not have a clue, no doubt you supported the appointment of Karel Fraeye.
One thing I do agree with is that things can get whipped up on here and elsewhere and rumours/ half truths become facts, but there is enough smoke and fire now surely about this regime.
I find it interesting you are giving them to the end of this transfer window before deciding whether you are an appeaser. Why this particular transfer window may I ask? They have been in charge through many and to date managed to dismantle a team that finished 9th to a team that has been relegated, whilst churning through 10's of players and losing millions in the process. If the end of this window sees more disastrous decisions then do you give them to the end of January and ad infinitum. They have bought the club 'to its knees', quoting yourself and yet you still give them more time because we are not yet dead?
As for people to renewing for non regime reasons, to me they are all intertwined. Would our season ticket renewal rate be higher if not for relegation - yes. We're the regime responsible for relegation - yes. Simple in my book.
Al is alright though, off of a message board he talks sense.
Here the ills of the club are secondary and therefore those passionate concern and fears for the club can be patronisingly dismissed as hysteria.
This isn't meant to come across as the dogs abuse you are expecting.
We all have a common bond as Charlton fans and we can' t all be expected to see things the same way.
But people with far more wit and intelligence than me have articulated the dreadful malaise of the club and to me, as I have said before, there are none so blind as those who will not see.
Keep following the team and let the rest take care of itself is not a mantra I feel comfortable with.
Another 6 matches to allow them to blend in together. We arrive at the start of October to a message saying "we have identified the players we need and will purchase them in January".
It appears to me that we are following the same strategy as the previous seasons but with an English manager and a couple of English free transfers.
When we went down in 09, I was also about to become a dad, I still renewed...went from yeovil to Stockport to Leeds and in between. I didn't mind league one for the away days, the football was shite generally
I am not renewing this time, I will be doing aways... Ask yourself why this is the case. Why is it that on my last few trips tonth the valley I was treated like a suspicious criminal, all because my season card didn't work properly, my child being searched rigorously, the constant disparaging comments by Katrien and Murray, the absence of duche....the lies and constant bullshit. The disconnect between fans and players, the fact only 1000 people bothered with a home friendly....
I refuse to be herded because for the first time in 20 years, I'm not renewing, I have seen shit shit and more shit in that time, I was still made to feel valued and welcome at the valley, I don't feel that way now.
It is not Charlton Athletic, it is a shit science experiment based on an out of date periodic table.
There is a Disney film called Tomorrowland, in which one of the characters played by Hugh Grant suggests the world ending will come about because for 99% of the population, it is easier to let it happen, as this involves no effort, than to actually get up and fight against the tide, and sadly, a lot of the people (not necessarily Alty and Essex_Al) seem happy to renew and sit back to watch the dross, as trying to get Roland to go would be too much like hard work. I have mates who regard the football at the Valley as a fun gap in the afternoon which they surround with drinking in Greenwich, and I think it's a valid enough thing to do. However, the thrust of this post is that you are 'happy' for Roland, Meire et al to stay. One of your arguements is that the Spivs were worse. Sorry, but even if that were true (and they took us straight back up), how does that instill feelings of happiness with Roland. It's not just Karel Fraeye, though that was a new low even for Charlton, but nearly every managerial decision has been crap (or why did we change so often), it's not Katrien lying over and over again, and even suggesting the club was overstaffed with people who didn't have the necessary skills (unlike herself?), or Roland's rant that there are fans who want the club to fail (ha ha, says who!!), or some of our more moronic transfer dealings (Henderson free, Kermo cheap, Polish Pete and Thuram the clown), it's the entire running of the club. And that cannot be any sort of justification for happy.
I would much rather be paying a lot more for a season ticket watching a successful Charlton side than £175 to watch a Charlton team representing a club that I struggle to recognise to the extent that I'm fairly indifferent as to whether they win or not.
I won't be going to Charlton home games as a matter of course this season, for the first time since I attended my first match in 1986. This would have been my 30th consecutive season of almost full attendance at home games. Now I wouldn't go if they paid me.
AA can suggest that I'm a West Ham fan or that I suddenly have better things to do - the fact that he takes a reasonable tone when doing so makes it no less insulting. Few of us are as dedicated in supporting our team as him but many, many of us have spent a lot of time, money and invested a lot of our emotional energy into this club over the years. I have no issue with anyone that continues to go to games but I do have an enormous issue that I have been driven to the point where I don't feel that I should. I'm not prone to hyperbole and rumours and I'm certainly not looking for an excuse not to go. I have been driven to this point by an ownership with little concern for sporting success or a proud club's fans, history and reputation.
Charlton are not losing casual fans who have suddenly realised en masse that they'd prefer to go to the cinema on a Saturday afternoon, they are losing a significant chunk of their hardcore fan base who share many thousands of years of dedicated support between them. I would question the judgement of anyone that doesn't find that to be of huge concern.
At the moment I’m on the fence, but I am willing at this stage to give her the benefit of the doubt until the end of this season. Changing CEO’s mid season may cause more problems than it solves.
On July 31st 2016 you wrote:
I've rambled on long enough, and I guess most people want to know if I am a Roland and Katrien appeaser, so they can give me dog's abuse, That will have to wait until the close of the transfer window.
So, first of all you were going to pass judgement on the regime at the end of last season now you have moved that revelation to the close of the transfer window. You tease, and you are going to move the goalposts again aren't you? Because you clearly love the attention. The title of your original post gives the game away (AM I THE ONLY ONE THAT WANTS ROLAND TO STAY).
You knew damn well that title was going to attract some attention but your points outlined in that OP were valid questions
and opinion all of which were answered respectfully by Prague Addick and others who hold different views.
Despite all of that and the subsequent post-Nov-2015 on-field events and the off-field antics of the disastrous CEO you would still rather hold over judgement on the regime and instead insult those fans who have 'voiced' their protest by giving up their STs for the coming season by suggesting for MANY (your word) the reason is not the regime but an excuse to give up supporting Charlton.
Was that done also to provoke a reaction or do you really believe that many fans who placed their season ticket at the foot of the Sam Bartram statue at the end of the last home game did so without a tear being shed?
That was a grossly disrespectful thing to suggest AA and it was a comment too far no matter how much you want to be perceived as the flag-bearer of - how was it you put it - the silent majority?
You say you have rambled on long enough AA.
Yes you have - and with your outrageous and unjustified dig at those giving up the ST's you have achieved your wish and got a reaction from me but that's it - I am not going to spend any more time on this thread waiting to see what your next attention seeking comment is going to be or which other element of the Charlton fan base you are going to insult.
Stage 1: An honest and heartfelt admission of guilt before a jury of we, the people (North Stand only).
Stage 2: A period of hard manual labour in exchange for the right to watch one Wycombe Wanderers match. The following comments to be chanted "A proper football team, with proper supporters, a proper football team with proper supporters" in unison 100 times at the conclusion of the match.
Stage 3: Every post on Charlton Life henceforth to begin with the words " How could I have been so blind?"
Stage 4: A systematic and unvarying adoption of the correct response to any dissenters from the political orthodoxy: "Fuck off and support Palace you knob".
enculer ta soeur = to fuck your sister (pronounce the "u" as in "Umberto" )
je m'en fous = I don't care
Also Phillip Green the Pension raider emulates Robert Maxwell and does a back flip with a BHS bed tied to him off his 100 million pound Yacht.