June 18 2006

Selhurst Park

What with World Cup hysteria everywhere, Jamesey gives his thoughts on CPFC's new man in charge, Peter Taylor.

Just over a couple of weeks I flew out of Gatwick to a Greek Aegean isle and, when I came back, learned that Peter Taylor had replaced Iain Dowie at the Palace helm.

On the beautiful island of Thassos, I watched both England games so far (Paraguay and Trinidad/Tobago) amongst a sea of red and white-clad England fans.

Uninspiring football at times but, wahay, six points and in the final 16.

Anyhow, to those of us who are red and blue, as well as red and white, vitally important matters have been resolved which will affect all of us next season and beyond.

After our 2-0 win over Hull City (Peter Taylor's former club, of course) last September I wrote a little eulogy about Peter, saying how much I had enjoyed his years here as a player in the 70s and how, but for the shortness of his stay here (three seasons), he would almost certainly have fallen into the "Palace hero" category.

Reading the transcript of the press conference introducing Peter (many thanks, Farawayeagle), I thoroughly agreed with everything said by the new man and Simon Jordan.

It was clear that Simon had been influenced after he personally talked to Peter, having previously regarded him as merely a strong candidate.

And before a ball has been kicked for 06-07, it was evident that the chairman and manager have the basics of a good working relationship of the sort formerly enjoyed when Iain Dowie first arrived.

i must admit I was surprised at the important role Bob Dowie had played in the proceedings, having assumed he would quickly follow his brother out of the Selhurst door. But, no, it appears that he could be staying on in a crucial role.

Anyhow, all will be revealed in the coming weeks and, as was stated by Simon and Peter, the first priority is to fill the boots of Andy Johnson, if that is really possible even with £8.5m to spend.

Well, 30 years later, welcome back to Selhurst, Peter. We are all expecting great times ahead...

Email Jamesey with any comments to Jevans3704@aol.com

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