My reply to a fooball tipster who used to support Citeh in their dark days
but dropped them and became a Manure because of their glory.
Hello Lee,
eighty seven years ago, bar two weeks, I was born less than 1000 yards away from St. James' Park in Newcastle. Although I moved to Surrey in 1964 and my return visits have become infrequent I am as much a supporter of the Toon as my friends and relations who still live locally.
If you are a genuine supporter then you CANNOT CHANGE despite going through terrible heart aching times like the Ashley era.
I've seen it all from three FA Cup wins in five years and the old Inter City Fairs cup success to almost dropping down to the old third division and only being saved by Sir John Hall and Kevin Keegan, then to almost winning the Premiership within two years.
Now we have a good setup, good owners and an excellent manager and staff and despite the backing they aren't wasting money. A steady build up over a few seasons will do me.
I may not be fortunate enough to see the ultimate success but the foundations are already there in less than nine months and my two sons who although were born in Surrey but are fans and the younger supporters who have also witnessed the bad times will enjoy future successes.
So Lee, stick with your local team especially if it is in your heart and the rewards, when they come are beyond belief.
Regards and good luck to you,
Bill Gibson
