Birmingham Mail

Yes, you read that correctly. Some thoughts...

1. Tony Pulis. Used Albion's wealth as an excuse last season and again this season. Call me Bill Murray but haven't we been here before. Mr Pulis, the reason Albion have the parachute payments is that they earned the right to be in the Premiership over the course of three seasons. Unlike, say, Stoke. Groundhog Day indeed.

2. Why does the press room at the Britannia Stadium not have a door handle? Members of the media have to knock on the door to enter the press room. Presumably this is ritual endured by all clubs...but why? Are we not living in the 21st century. Surely a door handle is available from a Wickes store or B&Q somewhere within Staffs. Are handymen in short supply? What's going on?

3. To the neanderthal sat directly in front of BBC Radio WM's reporter on Saturday... he isn't an Albion fan. Turning round to him, abusing him, swearing at him and pointing at him was all very well but we all found you, at best, slightly amusing and, at worst, a bit of a fool.

4. To those from the Potteries wishing to condone violence following my Birmingham Mail report - firstly, show yourselves, I don't reply to pseudonyms or abusive emails. Secondly, be honest... are you really proud of how your team play football? Do you go home satisfied after another turgid, caveman-style victory? Are 25 years of superiority over Albion the end product of your ambition?

My report was based on watching 24 Championship football clubs plus many more games in different leagues throughout the season and beyond. Stoke are potentially impressive and possess decent players. You have an excellent midfield, a sturdy defence and a fantastic striker. They are footballers - they should be used as such.

My opinion is no better or worse than your's. When you go up - which I think you will - you'll be getting a lot worse from Hansen, Lawrenson and co.

5. Apologies to John Prescott. With hindsight you didn't deserve the slur.

Merry Christmas to all, especially my friends in Stoke-on-Trent.