A Tnc Russ Rallying Cry

When Martin put pen to paper on a new deal extending his stay until 2019, I dabbled with the idea of writing about how his signature could be City’s most important signing of the summer. I bottled it, for fear of haterz giving me the ultimate hate, or just because I have two small children and a feisty wife to take up a large portion of my time. I’ll let you decide which one of those reasons is true. (Trick question, they all are).

The thing is, Russ’ interview just reaffirmed my view. In a period of flux and potential instability, some level of constant is a prerequisite. Martin appears to act as a perfect conduit between the playing staff and management team in an understated and capable manner. In a new and excitingera when harmony and communication is of paramount importance, Martin should be our go-to guy. He many not play every week, but my bet is he’ll be around the starting eleven more often than not, and he’ll always leave everything he has out on the pitch.

He alludes to this in his chat with Jack and Chris. The sense is it’s something Webber has recognised too, and is altogether sensible in giving us the best chance of coming through the next few months with a chance of the top six or beyond.

It’s also clear last season’s sporadic yet understandable levels of support from the terraces transmitted to the players. As much as these vastly paid stars should be able to block it from their minds, Martin was keen to stress we as fans do have an effect. We can make a difference.

“I look at a game – Derby a few years ago – that’s the best atmosphere I’ve ever played in at Carrow Road, it was amazing. At 2-2 nothing’s really going to happen, but the atmosphere was unbelievable. It can work the other way as well – you go 1-0 down and the place starts going a bit apprehensive and tense.
We’re going to be playing a different style of football this year that’s for sure. People are going to have to be patient, it might take a little bit of time.

Marley Watkins asked me the other day in the ice bath ‘What are the fans like here?’ I just said ‘If the place is rocking it’s one of the best places to play’

From speaking to players who’ve come and played here they don’t enjoy it. It’s a partisan crowd and the club’s a massive part of the community – that’s how it should be”

You heard the skipper. You can make a difference in the stands “if” you’re rocking. If. Be patient, listen to the club’s message because their stance has changed. This is no longer a closed shop. You can have your say, you can help the players, and together we’re all better off. OTBC.

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