So just as the nation’s schoolchildren prepare for a wonderful six weeks of doing absolutely nothing – he said without any hint of envy or bitterness – the nation’s footballers prepare to go back to school.
Or at least that’s how some of the Wolves players described returning to pre-season training after their own six week ‘holiday’.
It’s been just over a week since the Wolves squad checked back in at work and, almost to a man, they seem absolutely delighted to be there.
Infact Michael Kightly, Stephen Ward and Andy Keogh were so desperate to get back in the swing of things they actually came in a day early!
Presumably they also left an apple on Mick McCarthy’s desk and asked if he wanted the blackboard wiping just to make sure.
Meanwhile another player – who shall remain nameless for his own protection – admitted a couple of weeks at home with the missis was more than enough ‘relaxation’ before he started pining for the testosterone-fuelled environment of the dressing room.
Now it’s time for that gruelling task of getting fit for the start of the season, including an extensive programme of friendlies – starting at Grays on Saturday – and next week’s tour of Ireland.
McCarthy admits the theme of pre-season has changed somewhat since his days as a player.
Nowadays it’s a bit more scientific than just running until you drop, as well as a bit more varied.
Wolves have already taken to the terrain of Cannock Chase for a spot of bike riding, and rumour has it that boxing gloves have also been in evidence at the Compton Training Ground.
Whether that was part of training – or to settle the row after Kightly nicked Keogh’s peardrops – is open to question.
Comments (9)
Running till you drop never did me no harm.
Posted by E.Ward | July 11, 2007 6:19 PM
Posted on July 11, 2007 18:19
Exactly. These players today don't know they're born!!!
Posted by An old-timer | July 11, 2007 9:31 PM
Posted on July 11, 2007 21:31
As a Wolves fan, I just can't wait for next season to start.
It's difficult to believe that a year ago Hoddle had just left and we were all wondering what on earth was going to happen.
Mick McCarthy's Barmy Army!
Posted by Dave Casey | July 11, 2007 9:33 PM
Posted on July 11, 2007 21:33
Just look at how far McCarthy took us while he was still sorting things out. This time, with his feet under the table, it's got to be promotion.
Posted by Renwick Jarvis | July 11, 2007 10:33 PM
Posted on July 11, 2007 22:33
Ahh, Mr Berry at last - step into the office.....what's this about awarding Wolves A- for their efforts this season? No wonder this country is in the state it's in, praising failure and championing mediocrity
Posted by Headmaster | July 12, 2007 5:21 PM
Posted on July 12, 2007 17:21
A-? It was actually a B+ Sir.
Not quite worthy of an A but pretty damned close!
13 players for McCarthy to work with just two weeks before the start of the season.
Half of them wondering what was going on.
And hardly any cash to spend.
To get into 5th was an achievement more than worthy of a B+.
Whilst also leaving room for improvement for an A!!!!
Posted by Paul | July 12, 2007 6:45 PM
Posted on July 12, 2007 18:45
Can anybody help me? I attended Mansfield v Wolves at Field Mill in April 1989 and, during the match, lost my inflatable parrot.
It was of great sentimental value and it would mean the world to me to get it back. Anyone know where it is?
Posted by brian | July 12, 2007 9:29 PM
Posted on July 12, 2007 21:29
B+ still a grade too high. This country is going to the dogs. So I take it Wolves will win the league next season then, otherwise anything less than 5th would mean U for unclassified. It's not as if Wolves play Shexy football like Barcalbion is it?
Posted by Headmaster | July 13, 2007 11:04 AM
Posted on July 13, 2007 11:04
You've got to be joking Brian.
I escaped from you once, I sure as hell ain't gonna come back now.
Posted by Pretty Polly | July 13, 2007 11:13 PM
Posted on July 13, 2007 23:13