Day 9

Six people responded to my ad for a new coach. I offered a contract to Steve Brown, but he refused to accept my terms. Jamie Shore and Colin Omogbehin were likewise unwilling. Jason Fowler agreed, however, so I should have a second coach on board soon.

I then had a meeting with the existing staff, who advised me on training ground matters and recommended signings. I ignored their suggestion to remove Jamie Taylor from the transfer list (he's not good enough).

I asked my Assistant Manager Mark BradshawCurtis Woodhouse to compile a loan players availability report—a fancy term for finding out who we can, I guess you might say, borrow from other clubs—on central midfielders.

I got a surprise call at 11:15pm telling me that defender Josh Gowling took exception to his change in squad status, which I okayed at the staff meeting at Bradshaw's suggestion. Gowling spat the dummy at me, and now he's going to have a little cry. He said, "I don't think I can work with you any more after this treatment."

What a prima donna—all I did was change his status from "Key Player" to "Important First Team Player." I'll be interested to see how this drama unfolds. He's been one of the better performers in our opening few friendlies. And my staff tell me that he's our best centre back. But I'm confident that I can find a capable replacement if we need to sell him.

One man does not make a team, nor will he be allowed to break it, or stand above it.