Can the lawyers save us?
Its all getting a bit hot under the collar for the suits around at the FA and the FAPL. On the day when it was confirmed that The Addicks
have joined Wigan, Sheffield United and Fulham in writing to the Premier League to confirm they are investigating whether they have a legal case against the ruling of just fining West Ham and not docking points, 'champions of Europe'
Leeds United went into voluntary administration and took the 10 points deduction now as opposed to the next season if they'd waited 48 hours.
Cheeky and another example of bigger clubs riding roughshod over the authorities. Just ask
Rotherham, who tried everything to stay out administation but finally succumbed a day or two after last season and had their 10 point deduction deferred to this one and have now been relegated.
In regard to us, I don't know what to think really. If we get relegated it won't be anyone's fault other than our own, with the board the main culprit. Although the effort has been there in recent games, our lack of quality has confirmed to me that we are simply not good enough. Ultimately the squad Pardew left behind at Upton Park is much better than the one he inherited at The Valley, even if Tevez was proved to be signed illegally.
Pards of course is in an interesting position and maybe the key to some important evidence although he has distanced himself with honour from anything negative to do with West Ham since his departure. However, whatever our fate, the fact is that West Ham cheated and the FAPL bottled it.
The Premier League ruled that they considered the impact of a points deduction on West Ham's players and fans, and that they couldn't be blamed for the situation. So, I see it's our fault is it?
There is no denying the Argentinian's influence on field. Their player of the year has clearly had a substantial impact on results. With him they have won 23 points in 17 games, without just 12 points from 19. And for a player of palpable quality, he has cost West Ham just £5.5m, with an upside of £35m.
I've been thinking about this cheating lark. Why don't we play Carson next week at Anfield if we need a point? What they going to do? Fine us....