By Michael Lynch
August 2 2004

I used to rate The Times as one of the finest publications in England, but after this article, that respect is fading away. And fast. A poorly researched article that puts and extremely negative spin on all things Red was today published.

There was an article published in today's edition of 'The Times,' which focused on the negative aspects of Nottingham Forest's pre-season. When I saw that such a quality newspaper had written an article about our beatuiful club, I couldn't wait to open it up and begin reading. However, what I read was extremely poor and I would have expected a lot better from this publication.

The aforementioned article featured stories of how over the close season, Forest had lost all their key players and where heading into a downward spiral. Now forgive me if I'm wrong, but wasn't the only departre of a first-team player this pre-season Gareth Williams? And even he could not be considered 'key!'

They also stated that all we have to play for these days is local pride. What the hell is this guy on?! I have a mind to write in and complain after reading this four-word expletive and I think I shall! That's appaling. To suggest that the club have no ambition and that games with team such as West Ham are 'irrelevant' could not be further from the truth. Forest are looking for promotion- and if the author had done any research whatsoever regarding the subject he was required to write on, then he would've known this.

"Twenty-five years after their heroes were crowned kings of Europe, they have spent the summer listening to talk of administration. The fans were promised “sexy signings” but instead got Alan Rogers, a tubby full back, who came under siege from fans wielding chocolate bars during a previous visit to the City Ground. Add a disastrous tour to the United States and the departure of key players and you have a scenario that is as sexy as a date with a menopausal dentist.

A protracted row with the council has highlighted Forest’s parlous plight. As they struggled to make the repayments on the loan taken out to redevelop the Trent End, there was speculation that the ground might be repossessed and sold. That scenario has been averted, but the deep-seated problems remain. It is why Gareth Williams, the sometime captain, left for Leicester City when his contract expired and why Forest fans have long been resigned to losing Andy Reid, a barrel-chested throwback to the days of John Robertson." - Quotes from The Times's. Now... what's that I smell? It seems to be coming from here