Forgive me for being a tad self-indulgent, but almost 3 years ago I wrote this when one of my all-time favourite Charlton players, Chris Powell, returned to the club once again to be named the club's new manager. It remains one of my personal favourite posts since I began this blog, mainly as it was one of the easiest and most enjoyable to write. As anyone who has attempted to write a blog would know, posts from the heart are far easier than those forced out just for the sake of writing something.
Today marks the 3rd anniversary of Powell's appointment and with his contract expiring in the summer, I can only hope that the new owner recognises quickly what an asset we have and rewards Chris with new terms. Powell may not be the finished article as a manager just yet, but as I have said many times, and I make no apologies for repeating it again, there will never be a time when there is a man in charge of my club of whom I have so much respect and admiration. If I was to admit to having a modern day hero, then Powell is it (there, I've done it!).
In a time where managers are disposed of without a second thought, Powell has survived on the most limited of resources, more often than not using his infectious passion for the game and this club to drive average players to produce something special.
Three years ago I wrote " My heart aches with a desire to see Chris Powell lead my favourite football team to glory". Winning the League One Championship was just that moment and hopefully just the start of more to come.
Talking of 3's, it will be third time lucky for Charlton tonight as they attempt to stage the FA Cup 3rd round tie against Oxford United. Oxford sit within the Play-Off places of League Two and I won't be reading too much into the 4-0 victory we inflicted on them earlier this season in the League Cup. Having experienced many nights like the one ahead I know only too well how uncomfortable they invariably are.
I'll be at the Valley tonight as always for what will be the first game of the new era under Mr. Duchâtelet. I doubt our new owner will be there, but a healthy rendition of 'Chrisy Powell's Red & White Army' may just indicate to his management team just we think of our manager.
Great sentiments Ted, and ones I echo. I just looked up at what I wrote today 3 years ago and it was in a similar vein....
ReplyDelete"My heart aches with undying joy but also trepidation but I know more than anything else that Chris Powell’s heart has Charlton Athletic Football Club running through it like a stick of rock.
Welcome home Chris. Make us proud again."
Thanks CA. I remember your post well. I also recall one you wrote the night before his first game (if I recall correctly). Proper lump in the throat stuff, if memory serves me well.
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