Big Geordie

The last few months (well, since KK's return) have removed any doubt for me that there is indeed an agenda in the press, with regards to this football club. I'd say we get more column inches devoted to our 'little club' than the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea. Only the Mancs get more attention. Many journo's survived on the Shepherd soap-opera regime, where there would be a new story every week - be it Director's behaving disgracefully, players, etc. Now the club has imposed some akin to a media blackout, these same press men have resorted to presenting rumour and speculation as fact, which again feeds the myth surrounding the club. It will only change or lessen if and when the club starts to becoming successful again. Even then I wouldn't bet on it......

I heard the boos on whilst listening on the radio. I'm no Smith fan, but it was a ridiculous reaction by some in the ground. The lad's done nothing to deserve it - unlike Barton who will more than likely be cheered when he returns to the side. If Smith does go - I wish him well. He's an honest player, but it's just not worked out for him here.

Brilliant.

David Speedie - horrible little man.

He is a legend. I hope he is able to spend his last few months in peace and as pain free as possible. Would be great if NUFC could quickly organise some sort of benefit game, with the proceeds going to his cancer charity. I'm sure the place would be packed to the rafters. To have him as a guest there would be fantastic.

No Smith then? Makes you wonder whether there is something in the Everton link.....

checked their schedule and it wasn't on Buggeration.

Have Radio Newcastle got the match on tonight?

Concerned - the lack of ball retention and creativity is a major worry for me.

Very much an Allardyce like performance there tonight, and whilst it's only a friendly - I find that very worrying. There was a lack of pace throughout the side (perhaps bar Duff), ball retention was woeful and also a genuine lack of creativity. I know we are missing a few players - but still. KK has his work cut out for me, with a quality playmaker and a new striker now becoming paramount. Alan Smith? Simply Rob Mcdonald had a better strike rate than he's got.

i didnt realise we were so disliked! You'd never guess that was written by a Manc! And probably a southern glory boy too boot.

Why do I feel so strongly about the Barton thing? Because for years this club has taken it's fans for mugs, and it's not changed with the new broom. Right back from the Toongate scandal, through Dyer, Bowyer, etc - things aren't dealt with as they should be. People connected to the club know they can behave in appalling ways and they are still untouchable.

I bet you were the one who came up with the comment that the Mirror took, eh? Arsewipe.

So we should pander to what the papers say? Nope - I'm not influenced by the media, but I have a strong moral/ethical code. He should have been sacked. End of.

Good news - fingers crossed that it goes through.

That Barton comment has to be a total fabrication. Surely no-one can be that stupid? With regards to the media - stop buying/reading the papers. We are an easy target (again) at the moment. Unfortunately the club has done little to help itself on the PR front over the whole Barton business. :-/

We that was pish from what I saw. Not much pace in the side, woeful final product and absolutely nothing up front. Guthrie and Jonas did impress me. However, if we are relying on Smith and Ameobi as backup next season, then we are knackered. Neither looked interested. Just what does Alan Smith do when he is on the pitch, because it beats the shite outta me?

I thought this kicked off at 8pm BST? Gonna have to wait until Corrie is finished (our lass watching), to see the 2nd half.

I saw us dismantle Man City 5-0 at home, during the promotion season of 83/84. Beardsley hattrick that day - he was superb. In recent times - got to be the Man United 5-0 at home. Simply memorable.

I think the mackems have made some good signings, if I'm honest. I wouldn't minded have seeing Malbranque here - very under-rated, IMO.

I fully expect us to be gazumped again. Spurs now have more cash to play with, after Keane going to the scousers.

Ouch indeed. Hope the lad makes a quick and full recovery.

I don't have much sympathy for Barry. Has he not stuck in a transfer request?

He's always been a bit of a gobshite, but much of what he says in that article is spot on, for me.

Anyone know if Radio Newcastle are carrying the game, tomorrow? If so - will be listening in.