Good morning.                

This morning I’m on my way to the Royal Berkshire Hospital for a minor procedure which will keep me out of action for one week.

After tests a couple of months ago at St George’s Park with the League Manager’s Association I’ve got tightness of the arteries around my heart which simply need clearing. It’s simple and straightforward.

Rossi Eames, James Russell, Carl Muggleton and Luigi Cerullo will look after the players throughout the week along with the senior players who will continue, no doubt, to be model professionals, voice their opinion and contribute towards training and the preparation for the Crewe Alexandra game.

Whilst walking my dogs this morning a special memory came into my mind which I would like to share with you. And it was one of my most special moments at Barnet.

A couple of years ago we played away on a Saturday afternoon at Welling United. It was cold, misty and it was dark. I sat in the stand half an hour after the end of the game after John Akinde’s deflected shot dipped in underneath the crossbar for a 2-1 victory.

I had chatted with the players in the dressing room and spoke to the local media before taking a seat in the stand with a bottle of water for some peace and quiet. The double decker buses were going past behind the end terrace and it was then I picked up the travelling away support in full song singing with pride that special song  – we are on our way.

As the supporters moved behind the far stand the song moved along with them. It seemed to get louder and louder. I sat there on my own and knew at that moment that we were all going to be champions.

On Saturday I want more of the same for the players and for the staff. We’ve got ourselves into a nice little position and we must all march together. There is nothing to fear.

Take care,

Martin