Just back from the Q&A / kit presentation, which turned out to be far more interesting and illuminating than I thought it would be. In the event, there was a lengthy question and answer session with MP which went on for nearly three hours. A lot of ground was covered and I will probably only remember a lot of the detail in the next day or two, but some key points came across:
Palios, initially at least, seemed defensive, stressed, even aggressive at times, which is proabably understandable given the events of the last few weeks. I got the impression the strain of the job is taking its toll, with constant criticism on social media, probably exacerbated by the Mangan affair. He constantly referenced the Cowsheds forum and the vitriol on that site, at one point challenging anybody who posts on the site 'to stand up and be counted' which did not encourage critical comments form the audience. His tone became slightly more emollient as the evening progressed and attendees did feel able to ask critical questions, helped by Dave from the Cowsheds site emphasising that for all the negativity and abuse on social media, a broad cross section of supporters have legitimate concerns about events on the pitch and criticism of the team's performance should not be interpreted as personal abuse directed at MP.
Regarding the manager's position, MP stated that he is extremely disappointed with our performance this season, but argued there is little that can be done about it in the short term without creating instability at the club. When pressed on whether the manager's position is safe now, or in the summer if we finish in mid-table, he replied that the GB's position is constantly being assessed but any change would only happen if it would result in a long term improvement. MP's broad argument was that instability and constant managerial and player changes have been a major factor in the club's recent failures and standing by Brabin, even if he is underperforming, is necessary if it benefits the club in the long term. He asked supporters to 'grit their teeth' and see this season out, in the knowledge that a period of stability will benefit us in the long term. He seemed to suggest that if Brabin was fired there is nobody available at present who would be better in the medium term, so we must ride the season out.
In terms of instability and short-term thinking, particularly with regard to player recruitment, he cited the example of Butler's 'crazy' decision to sell Ryan Lowe for £50,000 (which no doubt contributed to Jeremy's departure).
The Mangan departure was discussed. MP stated that the decision to sell him was between the manager and the player and, while he takes an interest in first team affairs, if he interferes too greatly in GB's squad decisions the manager will no longer be accountable. His only alternative to letting Mangan go would be to sack the manager, and as he does not want to do this he must accept the manager's decision.
At one point in proceedings Palios asked 'why did I come here ?', apparently in jest but I think the rhetorical question revealed the strain he is currently under.
In general, I came away from the meeting satisfied that I at least understood Palios's logic in sticking with Brabin, even if I don't agree with it in purely footballing terms. I am sure that MP is deeply disappointed with the way Brabin is performed, but does not feel able to do much about in the short term without creating future problems for himself (player turnover, short term contracts etc.). Hence, he continues to back Brabin in the hope we take the final play-off place, which he still believes is achievable although a 'big ask'. Time and again Palios referred to the strength of the squad we have and his belief that we have better players than the majority of the opposition, which does not reflect too well on Brabin's performance.
A couple of further points: Palios said his biggest disappointment this season is our home form, which he admits could lead to falling season ticket sales next season.
He also stated that while it is impossible to quantify the budgets of all clubs in the division, we are definitely in the top quarter and have a budget that is 'right up there'.
