DENIS MISSES THEATRE

Denis Smith has cancelled a trip to the theatre in order to watch tomorrow's reserve match against Ipswich. "I was supposed to be going to the theatre but I'll now be at the reserve game," he said. "I've worked with the players in training but I'll get a better look at those who are challenging for places in a game like this." Andre Arendse is one of the players likely to be pushing for a first team recall, after Lundin's shaky performances in recent matches.

Any suggestions on what Denis was going to see at the theatre?

ARENDSE MISSING IN APRIL?

South Africa play their first 2002 World Cup qualifying matches in April, with home and away ties against Lesotho to take place on 7-9 April (away) and 21-23 April (home). If Andre Arendse is called up for these matches (and as a regular member of the SA squad, he probably will be), he would miss the matches at Wigan and at home to Brentford.

KEV STILL WAITING

Kevin Francis is still waiting to hear whether his loan move to carlisle is to go ahead this week. Carlisle currently have two players on loan (the maximum allowed), but are talking to on-loan keeper, Reading's Peter van der Kwaak, about a permanent deal. This would allow the Cumbrians to move for Francis. They will watch him in reserve team action against Ipswich tomorrow.

WATSON RETURNS VICTORIOUS

Canada caused yet another upset at the Confederation Gold Cup, beating Colombia 2-0 in the final for their first major trophy of any kind. No goal from Mark Watson this time though - it was Jason de Vos and Carlo Corazzin with a penalty who won the match for Canada. Man of the tournament, goalie Craig Forrest, saved another penalty. Reports can be found from CTV Sportsnet, Slam Soccer, and the Canadian Soccer Association.

The match in Los Angeles, devoid of crowd favourites Mexico and South Korea, and of course the home nation, was watched by just over 6,000 in a stadium that holds over 90,000. At least Mark Watson should have felt at home in front of such a crowd!

CONTRACT DELAYS

Denis has said that the eleven players who are out of contract at the end of the season have not yet been offered new deals because he does not know yet which division we will be in next season. "We can't really talk about what we can offer until we know what division we are going to be in next season, and where we are going to be playing, whether it's here at the Manor or at the new stadium," said Smith.

Nice to see such confidence from our Den. By the time we know our fate, no doubt our better players (e.g. Mark Watson) will have been offered pre-contracts by other clubs. I would also have thought that having eleven squad-members who are unsure of their future at the Manor is hardly good for team spirit, and thus results.

DENIS SLAMS CROWD

Denis was unimpressed with the crowd's general slating of Bus Pass's every movement on Saturday, saying, "He's an honest player who gives his best, and that's not the kind of support Oxford United need." So now we know - Bus Pass is indeed giving his best. It's still not nearly good enough though.

Denis went on, "I've got to be honest, I can walk away from this. I don't need the job, but I want the job. I've got pride, I really wonder whether they (the players) want the job. Its their living, they got to have a go at it. Its a game of football. If I was not getting paid or if I was playing on the local parks, I would not want to get beaten in this manner." Well, he's angry anyway...

LUNDIN'S BURNING CHEEKS
(OXFORD 1 WREXHAM 4)

Oxford yesterday fielded perhaps the strangest line-up I've seen in a long time at the Manor. A reserve striker at right back (Weatherstone). An inept and out-of-sorts striker on the left wing. A central defence of two right-footed playters, one a natural full-back. Some of these strange selections were necessarily enforced by suspension and international call-up. Others were induced by the madness of Lord Denis.

Yet Oxford started off the match positively, and even an Anthrobus cross caused havoc in the Wrexham defence. But reversion to type soon followed. The Bus (or Bus Pass as he should now be known) soon looked his old, inept self. Murphy again spent the afternoon putting in much effort with little result. Not even a goal to rescue his negligible contribution in midfield. Robinson still looks a season removed from league standard.

And as for Lundin - he had a nightmare. Not content with arguing with his defence while Wrexham took a quick corner for the first goal, he then effectively cost us the chance of a comeback (which incredibly looked on the cards at 1-2) with his attempted left-foot clearance. His left foot missed the ball. Allsopp got the ball. 3-1. Spineless Oxford gave up. Just like against Bristol Rovers and Preston. The players have an annoying tendency to stop fighting when they've al;most certainly lost. Do they then expect crowd support?

Watson, Whelan and Davis are back for next weekend's trip to the Medway. Judging by today's selection, a combination of Derek Lilley and Peter Rhoades-Brown will keep all three of them out of the team. Watson might get a place on the wing though...

WATSON'S BIG DAY TODAY

Canada take on Colombia in the final of the Confederation Gold Cup in Los Angeles this evening (our time). A preview can be found at Slam Soccer. Good luck to Watson and Canada!

WATSON INTERVIEW

Canadian sports website, CTV Sportsnet, has both a report on Canada's semi-final win and RealVideo coverage, including a post-match interview with Mark Watson (about 2'50" into the coverage, if you get bored).

LILLEY INTERVIEW

Bizarrely perhaps, the Express recently carried a profile and interview of Derek Lilley. Best quote is : "Even at Oxford we have a better set-up than they do at Tynecastle." I like the use of the word "even"!

WREXHAM PREVIEW

Loan signing Christian Edwards will go straight into the back line against Wrexham tomorrow. His probable partner in central defence is Les Robinson, although a three man central defence is possible, with Mickey Lewis making another start. Denis has also said that Simon Weatherstone may be drafted in as an emergency right back (he played there at youth level apparently), though what is wrong with playing Rob Folland there, I don't know. The midfield and strike-force are likely to be unchanged.

Wrexham will give a debut to their on-loan signing, 21 year old Australian striker Danny Allsopp from Manchester City. Apparently he is a close friend of our on-loan signing from City, Craig Russell. Allsopp replaces Neil Roberts (who recently signed for Wigan) in attack. Full back Phil Hardy returns from suspension.

The match is an important one, with Wrexham and Oxford the two sides immediately above the relegation zone, separated only by goal difference.

MORRELLS POSTERS

FOUL has some posters which will be displayed at tomorrow's game. The crowd will also be asked to hold up 'Boycott Morrells' flyers during the match.

FOUL has also issued the following press release this morning:

FOUL PRESS RELEASE
24/02/00

FOUL steps up the pressure on Morrells

Oxford United supporters pressure group FOUL (Fighting for Oxford United’s Life) is to step up its campaign to get all football supporters to boycott outlets owned by Morrells of Oxford. FOUL is concerned that the Morrells covenant, which prevents outlets within half a mile of the Blackbird public house in Blackbird Leys from selling alcohol, could be the last straw that breaks Kassam's back.

FOUL believes that Morrells threat of an injunction to prevent the completion of the Minchery Farm stadium is unreasonable and contrary to the spirit of the covenant, which was imposed when the estate was first built in 1962.  A spokesperson for FOUL said: “We have nothing against Morrells under normal circumstances, but we would similarly have fought anybody else who attacks our football club and was asking for something we believed to be immoral or extortionate. We don't think that Thames Water falls into this category which is why we are not targeting them in the same way."

FOUL believes that if the whole Minchery Farm project is viewed from a purely commercial angle then “nobody would touch it with a barge pole. There have to be emotional arguments because football clubs and their survival don't generally stand up to purely commercial arguments and the workings of free market forces, which dictate that whatever Morrells (or anyone else) can get away with is the right price. A football club generates emotional ties to the local community and when those ties are threatened then that community must join together to overcome those threats.  Oxford United’s new stadium and its ancillary developments have already faced a number of unusual, if not unique, pressures which would have tried the patience of any club chairman.  If Mr. Kassam had to overcome one of these in isolation he would probably plough on, but when viewed together they represent an almost insurmountable obstacle.”

FOUL continues to accept that Mr. Kassam represents Oxford United’s best hope of survival and therefore asserts that the local community must unite to fight this latest threat to the club’s existence.  The most effective way that this can be done is by continuing the boycott of Morrells in as high a profile manner as is legally acceptable.  The spokesperson continued: “The main purpose of this boycott is not create a huge dent in the company’s finances but to highlight to the wider public that Morrells of Oxford is prepared to put short-term profits ahead of the interests of the community of which it was once a part.”

This Saturday, prior to the home game against Wrexham, FOUL will once again be handing out flyers to spectators urging them to continue the boycott of Morrells.  FOUL wishes to reiterate that the campaign is aimed at the company and not at the individual landlords, who have so far been very supportive.  There will be a photo-shoot opportunity outside the Royal Standard, a Morrells pub opposite the Manor football ground on London Road, at 1.15pm on Saturday.

Mark Watson scored the only goal of Canada's semi-final match against Trinidad & Tobago to take his side into the finals of the Confederation Gold Cup. Watson's goal, a header from six yards,  came in the 68th minute, and means that Canada will be considered North and Central America's regional champions, whatever the result in Sunday's final against Colombia. Earlier Watson had preoved the villain, as he brought down Jerren Nixon for a penalty. But man of the match, keeper Craig Forrest, saved the spot kick.

Watson said of his goal, "If I hadn't scored, the lads would have killed me. I looked to make sure the flag was down and then went crazy. What a feeling!" Of reaching the final, he said, "I can't begin to describe how good this feels. Not many people thought we would be here but it's a great moment for soccer in Canada."

Carlo Corrazin, Watson's room-mate who headed the ball across goal for Watson to head in, said, "We got that telepathic thing going between us. I just headed it straight to my roommate. I just knew where he'd be. Telepathy." Watson added, laughing, "Yeah, we've been practising it in our hotel room for three weeks."

Watson said that Canada had not really played that well. "We never got into our rhythm. Today we didn't play that well. But we persevered. We didn't play well, but we found a way to win."

Other reports on the result can be found from Slam Soccer (and again), the Canadian Soccer Association and FIFA Online.

LOAN SPELL FOR KEV?

It seems that Carlisle in fact want to sign Kevin Francis on loan. Their problem is that they currently have two players on loan, the maximum allowed by league rules, but are keen to sign one of the loan players on a permanent deal. They could then sign Francis on loan. The move for Francis was about to go through earlier this week, but a goalkeeping injury problem meant that Carlisle had to use up their second loan slot on goalkeeping cover.

The Cumbrian paper, The News and Star, reports Carlisle manager, Martin Wilkinson, as saying, "Denis Smith agreed that we could have him [Francis] on loan, but it was important that we brought a goalkeeper in on loan so we have got to look at a way of getting around the problem. I would like to sign Rob McKinnon [permanently] and that would allow us to bring the target man we want on loan."

Any move will be on hold until next week, when Carlisle plan to watch Francis in the reserve match against ipswich on Wednesday. They ought by then to have sorted out their loan situation.

BIG KEV FOR CARLISLE?

TeamTalk reports that Carlisle are on the point of clinching the signing of "Big Kev" Francis. This would not be too much of a surprise, as we have plenty of stikers ahead of him now (even if none are much good). In fact any striker that finds Steve Anthrobus ahead of him in the pecking order should be given the right to an automatic free transfer! More seriously, Francis is out of contract in the summer, and would be unlikely to receive a new contract at Oxford. He hardly plays anyway, is now 32, and is seriously injury-prone. So I guess it would be sensible for him to move on now. Hell, Oxford may even get a small fee for him...

Denis Smith has held talks with Carlisle manager MArtin Wilkinson over the transfer of Francis, and Carlisle hope to have the deal sewn up before the weekend.

EDWARDS PREFERRED TO DRYDEN

Apparently Denis was about to sign Richard Dryden from Southampton (so a partially true rumour at any rate), but went to watch him one final time in Tuesday's reserve match against Forest. Christian Edwards was playing for Forest (who conceded three goals in the match!) and impressed our Den so much that he immediately approached David Platt to sign Edwards instead. Apparently Dryden has been injured, and is not yet thought to be up to the rigours of first team football.

But a kind contributor has sent me a Forest fan's opinion of Edwards and his move on loan to Oxford:

"I wonder if it is a brave attempt to get him [Edwards] match fit after a huge list of injuries, let him regain his confidence or a desperate attempt to ditch him because he is crap. We have got a Man City defender [Tony Vaughan] on loan. He got them promoted and since then hasn't played. He is supposed to be holding the defence together. Maybe Forest are trying to raise money to buy him."

WATSON'S SEMI-FINAL TODAY

Mark Watson and Canada take on Trinidad & Tobago in Los Angeles tonight (the early hours of tomorrow morning for us), attempting to reach Sunday's final against Colombia (who beat Peru 2-1 last night). Were Canada to win tonight, they would automatically be considered regional champions, as Colombia are a guest team, and not from the CONCACAF region. This would mean that Canada would play in the next FIFA Confederation Cup, the tournament that brings together the six regional/continental champions, which takes place in 2001.

Opponents Trinidad & Tobago will have Dwight Yorke back with them after his return to the UK to play for Man Utd against Leeds. Somehow Man Utd managed to wangle his return for that match (which meant his missing the quarter-final). It seems Alex Ferguson felt that a quarter-final match in a tournament which is the equivalent of Euro 2000 was an unimportant occasion. Can you imagine the reaction in England if in 2004 David Beckham, now playing for new club giants Sydney Olympic, was withdrawn from a Euro 2004 quarterfinal to play a league match in Australia? Well, it's the same thing...

YOUTH CALL-UPS

Three members of Oxford's youth team have been called up to represent an FA Youth XI in Sunday's match against the Combined Services at Portsmouth. The three are central defender Kelvin McIntosh, left back Simon King and the very highly rated winger Chris Hackett. A fourth Oxford player, the wondefully named Jordan Holder, is on standby for the match.

RUMOURS ALL WRONG!

As usual, the rumour factory proved completely useless. Denis Smith has today signed a loan centre-back, and it is not Gilchrist, Elliott, Dryden or even Upson. No, it is Christian Edwards of Nottingham Forest. He is right-footed, but can play on both sides of the central defence. He is 24 and has played for the Welsh B team. Edwards has not really featured in the Forest side after his £275,000 move from Swansea on transfer deadline day in March 1998, and almost moved to Bristol City for £100,000 after a loan spell there last season

LARGE STANDS FIRM

Peter Large, commercial director of Morrells of Oxford, the firm that now owns the former family-owned Morrells Brewery, has claimed that the brewery "supports" Oxford United, but also stated that his first duty is to his shareholders and licencees. In reply to the FOUL campaign to boycott Morrells pubs and products, he stated that the company "would not be bullied". He has written to licencees to warn them that they might receive adverse comments from customers on the Minchery Farm covenant situation.

He also tried to imply that the Morrells covenant was not the major hurdle for the club. "The Morrells covenant is not the major outstanding dispute relating to the stadium and surrounding developments. Thames Water also has a restrictive covenant and terms for the release of this covenant continue to be unresolved," he said.

It's simple - boycott Morrells until the minds of people such as Mr Large are changed. People who say their only duties are to their shareholders are those who need to be shown that they also have duties to their customers and the local community. And yes, do mention to anybody you know that Morrells products are tainted...

Want to know what some of the Morrells Tenants think about the new ownership? Or how Morrells of Oxford made themselves popular in Jericho? You might discover that the owners are not that highly thought of. From web searches I have done, the owners of Morrells seem to consist of some or all of the following:

• Michael Cannon - US-resident, former owner of the Magic Pub Company, which he sold to Greene King. He was apparently involved with the closure of Devenish Breweries in the mid-80s. He is not on the board of Morrells.
• Paul Beadle - appointed chief executive of Morrells after the takeover; former MD of Greenalls Inns; also previously with Devenish; aided Cannon in his buying of Morrells; now owns around 5% of Morrells of Oxford.
• Cartwright Solictors - Bristol-based firm who act on tenant evictions.

DENIS NOT KEEN ON SELLING

Denis Smith has denied that he is keen to sell Oxford's best players. "I don't want the good players at this club to leave. That's what I did here the last time. I spent so much time trying to sell players to keep the club going and I don't think we're in that situation now." Exactly how he reconciles this with his recent comment that he had "been telling Premiership managers about [Paul Powell]", I'm not sure...

RESERVES LOSE AGAIN

The reserves continued their long run without a win [last win was early November against Fulham] yesterday, going down 2-0 at Norwich. It was a strong line-up too, with Arendse, Folland, Cook, Anthrobus, Lewis, Shepheard, Abbey, Simon Weatherstone and Kevin Francis (returning from injury) all starting. Triallist Mosiah Blake played again. Denis is known to be keen to transfer the 18 year old's registration from West Brom, and add the promising Blake to Oxford's squad. Negotiations are currently said to be in progress. According to Denis, "He's got the potential to be a million pound player."

RUMOURS

The continuing speculation as to exactly whom Denis is lining up on loan (known to be a "top-flight defender") is causing rumours to fly around at a crazy rate. The latest two names to be mentioned are Leicester's Phil Gilchrist (you'll remember him I presume), and Newcastle's young defender, Stuart Elliott.

The former is extremely unlikely, as he is now getting a regular spot in Leicester's defence. However the 22 year old Elliott is more of a possibility, as his career consists entirely of loan spells at places such as Wrexham, Bournemouth, and - whisper it quietly - Swindon. He is yet to make a first team appearance in a Newcastle shirt. He did however play in Bournemouth's 4-0 thrashing of the U's earlier this season! He has captained Newcastle's reserves for a while, and is described as tough and hard-working, but is just 5'8".

Denis hopes to have the loan signing (a left-sided central defender) on board by Wednesday. He said, "I've spoken to the club concerned and it looks promising, but I'm just trying to get the best possible deal I can. I'm not too worried about it at the moment. If it gets to Wednesday and I still haven't heard for definite, then I may start to panic. But you always think that you can get certain players and I have a second and third choice to fall back on."

Latest rumour is Arsenal's Matthew Upson. This can be discounted as he is still recovering from a ligament injury. So there.

And now we can add Southampton's Richard Dryden (30) to the list. According to OxTales, Denis said on local radio that he was after Dryden. This is unconfirmed. He is described as a quick, goal-scoring central defender.

SAME OLD DENIS

Remember last time Denis was manager? He spent most of his time trying to flog our players at bargain prices. After he left Oxford he even admitted that he had tried to sell Elliott and Gilchrist as a package (where would that have left us at the time?) When he was at West Brom he claimed he'd saved us by buying Whitehead off us. Now he's continuing his philosophy of "It's my role to ensure Oxford sell all their players" even though (post-CVA) we're now officially solvent. Here's what he said about Paul Powell after Saturday's match: "I've been telling Premiership managers about him. He was outstanding today. And people say we don't have many top left-sided players in this country."

So expect another of our talented players to be sold at a rock-bottom price shortly...

DEFENSIVE PROBLEMS

Canada caused the shock of the tournament in the Confederation Gold Cup last night, beating favourites Mexico 2-1 after extra time in San Diego. This means that Mark Watson is unlikely to return in time for the Wrexham match on Saturday, and with Whelan and Davis suspended, Oxford will have real problems finding central defenders for the match. Canada will now play Trinidad & Tobago on Thursday evening in Los Angeles. As this is Friday morning British time, even a loss for Canada would almost certainly preclude Watson's return in time for a Saturday afternoon match.

Other reports on the upset result can be found from Slam Soccer and the Canadian Soccer Association.

DREYER TO RETURN?

John Dreyer, former U's left back (1985-88), is being linked with a loan return to Oxford. Dreyer is now 36, and playing for Bradford City's reserves, although he was a regular for the Bantams in last season's promotion campaign. He has plauyed at both left back and centre back for Bradford, but is he really the central defensive cover we need?

FRANCIS IN ACTION

Kevin Francis will continue his comeback from injury by playing in the reserve match at Norwich today, kick-off 1.30pm.

A LITTLE BIT OF LUCK
(OXFORD 2 CHESTERFIELD 1)

Steve Blatherwick's unfortunate miskick let in Derek Lilley for a late winner, after a fairly turgid encounter looked to be heading for a draw that would probably have been a fair reflection of play. Not that I'm complaining. Earlier two superb goals, volleys from Peter Fear and Ryan Williams, had cancelled each other out. Much head tennis and misplaced passing filled the gaps between the goals. Any observer could see what end of the table these two sides were sitting at. But it's a second consecutive win for Oxford, and there's some now breathing space between the U's and the relegation zone. We might yet get out of this mess...

FOUL PRESS RELEASE

Late yesterday, FOUL issued a press release on the subject of the Morrells covenant:

FOUL calls time on Morrells

Oxford United supporters pressure group FOUL (Fighting for Oxford United’s Life) is calling on all football supporters to boycott outlets owned by Morrells brewery, formerly based in Oxford.  The reason is that the brewery is threatening to take out an injunction to prevent the club from completing its new stadium at Minchery Farm, on the city outskirts, due to a 1962 covenant on the Blackbird pub at nearby Blackbird Leys.  The covenant prevents other premises within half a mile of the Blackbird from selling alcohol, which makes the conference centre, hotel and leisure developments which are going to fund the stadium development unfeasible.

Work was due to recommence on the stadium, which has remained half built for over three years, this Monday, but the threat of the injunction could delay the start.  A spokesperson for FOUL asked “Why didn’t Morrells come forward with this covenant four years ago, when planning consent was first sought? How come they’ve chosen this moment, when builders are almost back on site, before presenting their objections?”

The FOUL spokesperson claimed “This is an act of pure greed by Morrells, who obviously don’t care about the consequences of their actions on the football club or the community of which they were once a part.  The covenant was introduced to protect the interests of a new pub on a new estate, not to prevent unrelated and unthreatening ventures on the site of what was a sewage works back in 1962. We are asking all football fans to drink elsewhere until this threat is lifted and we are hoping that a mass boycott of all Morrells pubs will hit them where it hurts them most ? in their profits.”

FK BUYS HEYTHROP PARK

Firoz Kassam has bought the Heythrop Park property (near Chipping Norton) from NatWest for a hefty amount of dosh. Here's the NatWest press release:

NATWEST ANNOUNCES SALE OF HEYTHROP PARK, OXFORDSHIRE
NatWest Group (“NatWest”) announced today [18 February 2000] the sale of Heythrop Park, Oxfordshire to Mr Firoz Kassam, Chairman of Oxford United Football Club and owner of the Holiday Inn hotel in London’s Kings Cross. The sale, which will be completed by the end of March 2000, is for a sum in the region of the original guide price of between £13 million and £15 million.

Oxford play yet another "must win" match against relegation rivals Chesterfield, who are currently bottom of the table. Andre Arendse has returned from the African Nations Cup to challenge Pål Lundin for the keeper's shirt. As Lundin is getting over an ankle injury, Arendse may get the nod. Mark Watson is still unavailable, so Davis and Whelan (who miraculously managed a clean sheet last weekend) will continue as the central defence. Kevin Francis is probably not yet fit enough to be added to the squad, so Arendse's addition should be the only change from last week. Paul Powell and Joey Beauchamp have overcome minor knocks.

Chesterfield will include new signing from Tranmere, Ryan Williams, in their team. The 21 year old has made a major impact as an attacking midfielder in his three month loan spell which preceded his £85,000 permanent move. Former Forest defender Steve Blatherwick is another player to have impressed for Chesterfield in an otherwise dismal season, which has seen them win only one away league match (in September). Prepare for much shouting of "Duncan Out" if things go badly for the Spireites.

CROSBY ALERT

Expect the imminent return of Malcolm Crosby to the Manor after he today left his post as first team coach of Derby County "by mutual consent". Derby manager Jim Smith said, "Malcolm's departure is nothing to do with results. He still lives in Oxford and travelling has been a problem. Malcolm is a super guy and popular. We wish him well in the future."

Denis has denied that there is any prospect of a return for Crosby. "Malcolm will always be welcome wherever I am, but we haven't got any money here," said our Den.

Mark my words - he'll have rejoined his beloved Denis sooner rather than later...

JOEY IN TEAM OF WEEK

Joey Beauchamp's performance in the match at Wycombe won him a place on the left wing in the Opta "Division Two Team of the Week". The Opta site said of his performance:

"Oxford managed to win at their local rivals despite rarely threatening the Wanderers goal. Formerly-homesick schemer Joey Beauchamp was the pick of the United players, mainly thanks to his fortunate bundled goal after 27 minutes. His 44 per cent pass completion was not the highlight of the afternoon."

TOSS OF COIN SENDS WATSON'S CANADA THROUGH

Canada dramatically reached the second stage of the Confederation Gold Cup for the first time in their history. The toss of a coin was required to separate them from South Korea, and a call of "heads" by the Korean coach proved the wrong choice. So unfancied Canada progress at the expense of the far more experienced Koreans. Canada proceed to play Mexico in San Diego on 20 February (Sunday).

Earlier, a 2-2 draw between Costa Rica and South Korea (featuring a Costa Rican equaliser with just 5 minutes left) had left Mark Watson hanging on to hear whether Canada would progress to the quarter-finals. The result left Canada and Korea exactly level in second place in Group C.  Canada's boss, Holger Osieck, is realistic about his side's chances against Mexico: "To go into the next round [quarterfinals] is definitely the most we can achieve right now. I don't think we could go further."

FK VS MORRELLS

FK spoke on BBC Radio Oxford at 8.35 this morning to discuss the Morrells issue.

First the view from Morrells: They say that FK has been aware of the covenant for a long time (months). Morrells said that they don't want to obstruct Oxford's relocation, but that they have a duty to their share holders & customers. Yeah right. Boycott time. FOUL have already called for a boycott of Morrells. This site joins in the boycott call.

Now the interview on TVFM with Kassam: He agrees that he has been aware of the covenant for a while,  but he believed that an agreement was in place with Morrells to supply the stadium complex with Morrells products. Morrells had allegedly agreed to this arrangement, but they are now instead asking for a large sum of money to lift the covenant. FK yesterday put in a new proposal to Morrells and is waiting for a reply. We await the reply with interest.

When asked whether this issue could put the kibosh on the whole project, FK said that it is indeed a serious problem and that there may come a time when he says "enough is enough". He was worried that a new problem seems to crop up each time that an advance has been made. I know the feeling.

So remember, BOYCOTT MORRELLS. As always, when boycotting a product, it is most effective to let the company know exactly why you are boycotting their product. This enables them to rectify the situation. So you can email Morrells or phone them on (01865) 792013.

Morrells claim that they are "disappointed" at the prospect of a boycott by Oxford fans. Shame.

KEV BACK IN TRAINING

Kevin Francis returns to training today after recovering from his hamstring injury. Pål Lundin is also recovering well from his inflamed ankle, and should be fit for Saturday's match.

FURTHER STADIUM DELAY

Wouldn't you know it - there's yet another delay to the restart of construction work on the new stadium. This time it's the issue of the Morrells covenant that affects the Minchery Farm land. Firoz Kassam is quoted as saying, "When I signed the land deal with Oxford City on 4th February, I reported in all good faith that I hoped building work on the stadium would re-start by the end of the month. I would like our loyal and patient supporters to know that this latest complication is not of my making. I hope this dispute can be resolved quickly but it adds further coast and a possible unnecessary delay".

Apparently when Oxford originally started building (three years ago now) at Minchery Farm, the owners of Morrells said that they would not invoke the covenant. Unfortunately Morrells is now under new ownership, and the new owners say that they WILL enforce the covenant. Maybe we should have got something in writing the first time around!?

The covenant does not simply prevent establishments from selling any alcohol apart from that made by Morrells. It goes further than that - it actually prevents the building of any establishment which has the intention of selling such alcohol. So Kassam cannot build his hotel unless agreement is reached.

OXFORD KEEN ON BLAKE

Mosiah Blake, the 18 year old trialist, sacked by West Brom for disciplinary matters (thought to be ticket irregularities), has impressed Denis Smith during his trial spell at the Manor. Denis is apparently keen to sign the player, but his registration is still held by West Brom, and they might hold out for a fee or at least a sell-on clause for the young left wing-back. Denis said of Blake, "He was a left winger and he can play at left back. He's not bad, but we're just taking it one step at a time at the moment. He made a mistake. I'm not happy about it but I don't think a player should pay for something like this for the rest of his life."

Am I the only person who thinks that if Blake was effectively sacked by West Brom (even if the departure was officially "by mutual consent"), that they have a cheek to expect to receive a fee for him? Either they want Blake as part of their club or not. If not, he should be allowed to play freely where he chooses, with no ties to West Brom.

KNIGHT DECISION TODAY

The decision on whether to retain Derby keeper, Richard Knight, on loan for a second month needs to be made today, as his loan period officially expires today. It seems likely that Knight will return to Derby, as Pål Lundin's ankle injury is not serious, and also Denis Smith has indicated that he wants to bring in a central defencder on loan. Clubs are allowed a maximum of two loan players at any time.

WATSON'S STAY EXTENDED?

Canada have almost certainly qualified for the quarterfinals of the Confederation Gold Cup after a 0-0 draw against South Korea in Los Angeles last night, an impressive result against a team who regularly qualify for the World Cup. Mark Watson again featured in the Canadian defence. The only result which could prevent Canada from finishing in the top two of Group C is a high-scoring draw tomorrow between Korea and Costa Rica (at least 2-2 would be required). If they do proceed, Canada are likely to play favourites Mexico in a quarterfinal in San Diego on 20 February. Slam Soccer carries a more detailed report of the match.

DAVIS AND WHELAN SUSPENDED

Oh dear. Both Phil Whelan and Steve Davis were booked in the win at Wycombe, meaning that both will be suspended for the match at home to Wrexham two weekends hence. Whelan picked up his fifth booking of the season (the others being against Reading, Bournemouth and Preston, plus a booking in a reserve fixture). Davis amazingly picked up his TENTH booking of the season, and he's only started 19 matches so far! I won't bother listing all the games in which he's been booked, but as in Whelan's case, it includes one booking for the reserves.

The suspensions could cause real problems for Oxford, especially if Canada reach the semi-finals of the Confederation Gold Cup (though to be unlikely), which would mean that Mark Watson missed the match as well. A central defence of Robbo and Jon Shpeheard, anyone?

Denis was displeased with the number of bookings picked up by Oxford players (especially defenders) this season, and said, "I'll probably have to go for a defender [on loan] now because I've only got Jon Shepheard left. I'm not very happy about it ."

BEER PROBLEM?

What sounds like an almost trivial (even laughable) issue could become a stumbling block for the new stadium. You will all know by now that Morrells brewery (no longer local, but brewed in Dorchester in Dorset) have a covenant in Blackbird Leys, meaning that bars within a certain radius can sell only Morrells beers, or pay a hefty premium to sell beers produced by other brewers. Well, the radius stretches far enough to include the site for Kassam's proposed hotel. Unless he wants to sell only Morrells beers, Kassam would have to pay a hefty sum to get the covenant lifted for his developments. Otherwise an injunction from Morrells could find itself on his desk.

To me this seems like a fairly trivial issue compared to many others that have faced the club, but indications are that it could become a stumbling block. Surely compared to what FK has shelled out thus far, the amount needed to lift the covenant for his hotel would not be that much? Or would it?

It strikes me as odd that such a covenant was ever agreed by the City Council. Fair enough to have a covenant that protects all locally-brewed beer, but to protect a specific brand, which has subsequently been bought by non-local brewers!? Certainly the legislation (dating from the 60's) could have been better thought out.

LUNDIN INJURY NOT SERIOUS

Thankfully Pål Lundin's ankle injury is not serious and he should be back in training on Thursday, and fit to play in Saturday's match with Chesterfield. The ankle is apparently inflamed, but there is no serious problem.

NO SHOTS

The latest Carling Opta statistics (up to 5 February) list Oxford as the second most shot-shy team in the division. Only Blackpool with 87 shots on target are worse than the U's who have managed 97 in their games. Oxford are in the list for total number of shots (including off-target) with a mere 178. But is it our strike-force or their dearth of supply from midfield which is to blame?

Interestingly once inside the area, Oxford's players are listed fifth in terms of shooting accuracy [58.78% on target]. They are also sixth in the goals/shots ratio chart [23.66%]. We've just somehow got to get that ball into the area - an all too difficult task recently.

KNIGHT KEEN ON OXFORD

Richard Knight has expressed disappointment at the prospect of his spell at Oxford coming to an end this week, despite his only playing in two matches (one as sub) during his month at the Manor. He has stated that he would like to extend his loan spell if the injury to Pål Lundin leaves Andre Arendse as the only fit keeper at the club. He also said that he would fancy a permanent move to Oxford in the summer, if Denis Smith was keen. A barrier to Knight's loan being extended is that a club may only have two players on loan at any time during a season, and it seems that Denis Smith is keen to bring in another outfield loanee (along with Craig Russell).

Knight said of his situation, "If they give me a call because they want me to stay another week to cover for his [Lundin's] injury, then I'd do so. This was my last game because my month's loan is up, which is a bit disappointing. In the summer I'd like to come back to Oxford. If there was an offer from them I'd definitely like to come - they're a good bunch of lads, the management team's good as well and I think we'll stay up this year - and hopefully next year, push for promotion." Wow, they've obviously been over-sugaring his tea...

DENIS EBULLIENT

Someone whose tea definitely seemed to have been over-sugared after the win at Wycombe was Denis Smith. "I need another 7 wins this season - if we can get those, hopefully in the next 7 games, then we can enjoy the rest of it." Hmm....

CANADA DRAW

Mark Watson played in Canada's 2-2 draw with Costa Rica in their first group match in the Confederation Gold Cup in San Diego, California last night. Canada's next match is tomorrow evening (or actually in the early ours of Wednesday morning our time) against Korea. They need to avoid finishing last in the three team group to progress to the quarter-finals. The Canadian Soccer Association carries a lengthier report of the match.

BUILDING TO START "IN TEN DAYS"

FK has agreed a pre-contract with Barr Construction, which states that building work on the new ground will start on Monday 21 February. It is estimated that the ground would be ready for action eight months after the restart, meaning that 21 October (my birthday, incidentally) might herald the first game at the new stadium. (Note that the last match Oxford played on my birthday was a 4-1 home loss to Wycombe...)

This "pre-contract" business does worry me though. When will they sign a proper contract?

BETTER AWAY
(WYCOMBE 0 OXFORD 1)

A win at last, the first for Oxford since their boxing day win over Cambridge. This result now means that Oxford's away record is better than their home record. Fortress Manor is no more, but as we've now won our last two matches at Adams PArk, maybe that once-mooted groundshare should be made into reality. Only joking.

I shall embellish more on the result when I have more time, but suffice to say that the U's played a great deal better than in recent memory, worked hard for one another, and won the game through Joey Beauchamp's excellent strong run through the area. Lundin worryingly went off with a foot injury, giving Richard Knight his second appearance for Oxford on the ev of his return to Derby. Depending on the seriousness of Lundin's injury, Knight may well be needed for a second month!

ARENDSE SAVES HIS OWN BLUSHES

South Africa beat Tunisia on penalties to clinch third place in the African Nations' Cup. The shootout included a save (with his feet) by Arendse to deny Jaziri. The match had ended 2-2, with Tunisia equalising in the last minute. Arendse had earlier saved a Tunisian penalty in normal match play, but had also been responsible for both Tunisia's goals. He mis-kicked an easy backpass for the first, and fumbled a shot for the second.

JEMMOTT SENT HOME

Trinidad & Tobago triallist, Kerwin Jemmott, had to return home after his work permit was revoked by the Home Office. He had claimed to have represented T&T more often than in reality he actually had. Nigel Pierre, whom Oxford had flown over, but who then signed for Bristol Rovers, has had his permit revoked for the same reason.

INTERNATIONAL ACTION

Two Oxford players are likely to be in international action this weekend Mark Watson should play for Canada against Costa Rica tomorrow (kick-off 8pm GMT) in their first group match in the Football Confederation Gold Cup in Los Angeles, whilst today Andre Arendse might be involved in the third-place playoff match of the African Nations' Cup, against Tunisia in Accra (kick-off 4pm). However Arendse may miss out, with second choice Hans Vonk given a chance in his stead, since there is little of real worth at stake in the match.

WYCOMBE PREVIEW

Oxford make their shortest trip of the season tomorrow, down the M40 to Wycombe. With Mark Watson away in the USA, Steve Davis should return in central defence after recovering from injury, and successfully completing a reserve match in midweek. Craig Russell, on loan from Man City, should partner Nigel Jemson up front. Richard Knight features in an Oxford squad for the last time before returning to Derby, as his month on loan expires next week. Denis must decide whether to stick with his 3-5-2 formation, or return to 4-4-2.

Wycombe have injury problems up front, after Sean Devine limped off with an ankle injury during last week's match against Wrexham. He is unlikely to play, but dangerman Jermaine McSporran may be fit enough to replace him up front, after recovering more quickly than expected from an appendix operation. Steve Brown, Michael Simpson and Jason Cousins all return after suspension, but Jamie Bates and Paul Emblen are still out with injury.

SMITH ON RUSSELL

Denis Smith spoke of his reasons for signing Craig Russell on loan, saying, "I have gone for a striker who has got a bit of pace, and hopefully he will score goals for us. He was a young lad when I was at Sunderland and scored goals at every level he played. I know he can score goals and gives players problems. He is exactly what I have been looking for."

SHOTTON LOSES OUT ON YORK JOB

Malcolm Shotton was numbered amongst the favourites for the York City manager's job, following the sacking (or rather "parting by mutual consent") of Neil Thompson this week.  But Terry Dolan, former architect of Hull's drop through the divisions, has been appointed in preference to Shotton and Peter Jackson.

MARTIN ALDRIDGE'S FUNERAL HELD

Martin Aldridge was buried on Wednesday, with most of the promotion winning side of 1996 in attendance. Denis Smith and Matt Murphy were amongst the pallbearers. Here, courtesy of the Oxford Mail, are some quotes from fellow players about Aldo:

• Les Robinson - "He was a fantastic lad and I used to travel in with him and play golf with him. He was always full of energy and was a good goalscorer for the club. It is a tragic waste."
• Matt Murphy - "He lived just up the road from me and was a great lad. He stuck his goals away superbly for us. It just seemed that if the ball dropped in the box, it would be to him."
• Mark Angel - "He was just a really nice bloke, quiet, but he got on with everyone. As a player, I rated him too - he would always be good for a goal."

As reported yesterday, FK was a guest speaker at the AGM of the Blackbird Leys Residents Association. A summary of the key points was sent to me by a FOUL committee member who attended:

• Kassam said he hoped to get the builders on by the end of February;
• He hoped to finish during the middle to end of October;
• The hotel he is going to build in tandem will cost £8-10 million and be a 4 start jobbie. It will cater mainly for business people and conference delegates;
• There will be a ‘shuttle service’ running from the Manor to Minchery;
• If Pentith's Judicial Review succeeds it ‘will have a major impact on funding’;
• Kassam has no backers - it's all his money;
• The Priory will continue to trade as it is now;
• Where possible Minchery Farm site visits will be allowed to inspect progress.

Derby full-back, Sinclair Le Geyt, who played two reserve matches in a trial period at Oxford, after which nothing more was heard of him, has joined Northampton Town for a trial. He will play two reserve matches for the Cobblers.

BARNET GIVEN REPRIEVE

The Football League has given Barnet a reprieve, and is allowing the Hertfordshire club to continue playing at Underhill whilst they continue their search for a new ground. This is conditional on Barnet bringing Underhill's capacity above 5,500, with seating for at least 1000, before 1 August. The Barnet chairperson, Tony Kleanthous, said that this would entail spending a lot more money on Underhill, but sounded confident that they could even raise capacity to up to 5,700.

The march from Whitehall on 2 April will still go ahead, as many other clubs face a fate similar to that which had been faced by Barnet. This has to be brought to national (and government) attention.

LATEST NEWS - RUSSELL JOINS

The mystery "experienced" striker has turned out to be Man City's Craig Russell. He has joined Oxford on a month's loan, and is available on a free transfer if we want to sign him permanently. Russell, 26,  recently turned down a loan move to Carlisle, so at least we know we're still ahead of some sides in our attractiveness to players. He also had a recent trial at Norwich, but the Canaries decided against signing him.

Russell has not played for City this season, but has played 11 games on a loan spell at Darlington, scoring 2 goals. After his million pound transfer (yes, that's right, a million was the valuation of Nicky Summerbee in a swap deal) from Sunderland, Russell flopped at City, and has scored just 2 league goals for them in 21 starts (plus 9 sub appearances).

Here's a quote from a Man City supporter about Craig Russell:

"He's a good player but you must play him up front. The reason he didn't
score to much for City is that Clark played him as a wing back a lot of the
time and he certainly isn't a wing back. He played 5 games up front last
season and scored 4 goals including an absolute belter at York. I can't
understand why he didn't get more of a chance. I think he'll score you a
rake of goals in the 2nd Division if you can afford his wages."

Andre Arendse made some good saves, but could not prevent South Africa from losing 2-0 to hosts Nigeria in the first semi-final of the African Nations' Cup. Arendse will now play (unless rested) against Tunisia in the 3rd/4th place playoff on 12 February.

STADIUM READY BY OCTOBER?

Firoz Kassam said last night that he expected the new stadium to be completed before the end of October, and that he hoped building work would commence before the end of this month. He was speaking to a residents' meeting at the Greater Leys Community Centre. He also said that he has no financial backers (all money spent is his own), and that he was not trying to make money out of his involvement with Oxford United.

LOAN STRIKER SOON?

Denis has stated on BBC radio that he should be bringing in an experienced first division striker on loan this week. I'm not surem I like the sound of "experienced". Isn't that often a code word for "past it"? It is possible that the player is Brett Angell, as reports emanating from Stockport indicate that the County player is about to move to a "mystery club". Angell is unwanted at County, but his wage demands have meant that moves have fallen through. Read some opinions on Angell written by Stockport fans.

Other first division transfer-listed strikers who fit the definition of experienced are Iwan Roberts (Norwich), Clint Marcelle (Barnsley, now released?) and Gareth Taylor (Man City, but already on loan at Port Vale).

DENIS IN FORMER CLUB RAID SHOCK

Just days after saying he didn't intend to return to his former club West Brom in a search for players, Denis has taken a West Brom player on trial. Just days after saying we had too many left-sided players in the squad, it turns out that the West Brom player is a left-sided midfielder. He is youngster Mosiah Blake (18), formerly in West Brom's youth team, and he played at left back in the reserves' 1-1 draw with Bristol Rovers last night. Trinidad & Tobago midfielder, Kerwin Jemmott, overcame his fitness problems (and the weather) and also played in the match, lasting 72 minutes. The Oxford goal was scored by Steve Anthrobus - maybe he has found his level? Youngster Chris Hackett was again very impressive, and cannot be far from a place in the first team squad.

Mosiah Blake was apparently released this month by West Brom after disciplinary problems. Here is a paragraph taken from BOING's interview with John Trewick, the Baggies' youth team coach:

"What we have to do is channel their youthful eagerness and aggression into football. 99 times pout of 100, that happens. Footballers are human. There's always going to be somebody who gets in trouble, however well you educate them, however you try to prevent it. Mosiah Blake has been released by this club. Unfortunately for him, he transgressed once too often. We've a code of conduct, grievance procedures, together with the PFA we went down the line and got to a stage where we had no other alternative but agree to part. That was a damn shame. We're not blessed with a lot of left-sided players especially after Kevin left. So Mosiah was a fool. But from my point of view, if you deliver a warning, a verbal warning, then a written warning, if you make it clear that they transgress again action will be taken, then if you don't take that action, you're sending out all the wrong messages to everybody else."

ARENDSE IN SEMI-FINAL ACTION

Andre Arendse plays for South Africa this afternoon (3.30pm GMT), as they take on Nigeria in Lagos in the first semi-final of the African Nations Cup. The match is considered to be "the real final" by many observers, as the teams are considered to be Africa's strongest two. I don't know what Cameroon and Tunisia would say about that attitude!

PIRATES GAZUMP OXFORD

It has emerged that Oxford were gazumped by Bristol Rovers for the signing of Trinidad & Tobago striker, Nigel Pierre (20). Oxford had successfully applied for a work permit for the player, but Bristol Rovers stepped in when Pierre arrived in the UK, and have now completed his signing for a fee of £50,000, from Joe Public FC (managed by Ian Porterfield), for whom he scored 48 goals in 63 games last season.  The move is still subject to a work permit, as Oxford's successful application cannot be transferred. Pierre's international team-mate Dwight Yorke apparently recommended Pierre to Rovers. Thanks, Dwight...

Today in an interview with a Bristol newspaper, Pierre claimed that league position was an important factor in his choosing Rovers ahead of Oxford. I'm not surprised he chose a promotion challenge over a relegation dogfight.

RESERVES PLAY TONIGHT

There is a 7pm kick-off at the Manor tonight as the reserves take on Bristol Rovers. Will triallist Kerwin Jemmott overcome the cold and his fitness problems to play in the match? We'll have to wait and see.

BARNET MARCH NEWS

Barnet are inviting all football supporters to a Fans United march down Whitehall on April 2.

T&T MAN LASTS TEN MINUTES

The international footballer from Trinidad & Tobago lasted just ten minutes of an Oxford training session before breaking down with injury. Ever get the feeling that the club has broken a mirror or two?

The Oxford Mail has now identified the player as being Kerwin Jemmott, who is a midfielder not a striker. Denis has said that despite the player's injury, he will be taking another look at him. Denis is uncertain whether he is an international (!!), but looking at the T&T FA website, they have him listed in their senior squad. He has also definitely played for T&T since 1998, when he was still in their U21 squad. He has been described in the Trinidad Express newspaper as a "stylish left-footed midfielder". He is known locally as Kerwyn 'Hardest' Jemmott, whatever that indicates!

Apparently the trial at Oxford was arranged weeks ago, but a work permit only came through recently.

Interestingly, yet another T&T international striker is on trial in England, as Bristol Rovers are giving a trial to one Nigel Pierre.

SMITH'S FLAWS

Denis Smith has identified some problem areas in the squad. These are:

• No Martin Gray-esque midfield battlers;
• No pace up front, except Jamie Cook, who isn't really a striker. (What about Ben Abbey though, Den?);
• Not enough big men in the side;
• Too many left-sided players;
• Too many target-man type strikers and not enough creators (though why he classifies Lilley as a target man is beyond me).

WATSON SUSPENDED

Mark Watson picked up his fifth booking of the season against Preston on Tuesday, and as a result is suspended for the home match against Chesterfield. This may be of academic interest if Canada progress in the Gold Cup, as he would then not be available anyway. But it's no longer any good hoping Canada get knocked out really early so that we can get Watson back almost immediately. For the stattos amongst you, his other bookings came in the home matches against Bristol City and Bury and the away matches at Chesterfield and Bournemouth.

DAVIS BACK

Steve Davis successfully came through training yesterday, meaning that he can be embarrassed by the pace of some more opposition strikers in the near future. Oh good.

DEPRESSED
(OXFORD 0 BLACKPOOL 1)

Before today's match, Blackpool had the lowest points per game average in the division. Then we lost at home to them. The oft-repeated argument that moving to Minchery Farm would be bad for the team because we'd lose our Fortress Manor factor has been rendered laughable. Fortress Manor has been sacked.

So what of Denis Smith's return? No doubt he would say that he has not yet had time to influence the team (though would he have said that after a victory?) But he was back to his old ways as regards substitutions. Was there one other person in the ground who thought substituting Jemmo (especially when it was that paragon of ineptitude, The Bus, who came on) was a good move? His substitutions - throw two strikers on for the two strikers - smacked of desperation, the search for the quick and easy fix. We need better than that to get out of trouble. And what position was Rob Folland meant to be playing when  he came on? None of the other players seemed to know - certainly they wouldn't give him the ball.

What of the play itself? Well, Blackpool scored early on through the behemoth John Murphy, looked extremely bad afterwards, and we matched them. We had a couple of chances, notably an excellently-saved header from Matt Murphy, and so did they. We never really looked like winning it though, which is what we should have done at home against such a team. The matches against Chesterfield and Wrexham are becoming more and more important. We need to win them both.

The minute's silence for Martin Aldridge was impeccably observed. He will be sadly missed.

SMITH DENIES WEST BROM RUMOURS

Denis Smith has reportedly denied rumours that he is to return to former club West Brom to sign left back, Graham Potter, and left winger and former Oxford player, Mark Angel. He also confirmed that he would be paid for his services to the club (unlike predecessor Ray Harford). He said, "As far as I know I'm supposed to be paid. I haven't received anything yet but yes, I will be paid."

INTERNATIONAL ON TRIAL

Oxford have reportedly taken a Trinidad & Tobago international striker on trial. No, sadly it's not Dwight Yorke. According to TeamTalk (so don't take it as gospel), the player is likely to be one of Hector Sam (21), Arnold Dwarika (23), or Mickey Trotman (25). The latter two currently play for the marvellously named Joe Public FC.

There is one flaw in the above story. If we have truly taken a Trinidad & Tobago player on trial, then he isn't in their current international squad. The team is playing in the same Gold Cup tournament as Canada this month. Of the three players mentioned above, both Dwarika and Trotman are in the Gold Cup squad.

FURTHER HURDLE

Of course when I mentioned the four hurdles still to be overcome at Minchery Farm, I forgot about a fifth - the biggest of them all. Kassam has to sign the contract (around £13 million, I believe) with Barr Construction so that they can commence building work. Once his signature is on that document, we can really start to feel that the future is more secure.

ARENDSE IMPRESSES

Andre Arendse played an impressive match against Ghana as South Africa reached the semi-finals of the African Nations' Cup, beating the co-hosts 1-0, despite playing almost half the match with ten men. South Africa now play the winner of today's match between Nigeria and Senegal, and they will now be involved until at least 12 February, the date of the third-place play-off. So Arendse definitely will not be available for the Wycombe match, but will definitely be back for our match against Chesterfield.

WATSON JETS OFF

Mark Watson becomes our second representative in a regional championship as he leaves today to play in the North and Central American regional championships, or The Football Confederation Gold Cup 2000, in Los Angeles. Canada play Costa Rica on Sunday and South Korea (an invitation team) on Tuesday. The final of the tournament is on 27 February, but Canada are not expected to get that far. In previous competitions, Canada have never progressed past the first round. So Mark Watson might miss just the one match for us.

BAD BARNET NEWS

The KBA (Keep Barnet Alive) are organising a march for Sunday April 2, starting in Whitehall at midday. Barnet have been given until the start of next season to find a new ground, as Underhill does not meet League criteria. Their application for a ground at Copthall was turned down by the government. The only option available to Barnet is a groundshare, which, it is felt, would financially finish the club. The news page on the KBA site is well worth reading.

The KBA also received a scary letter from the Football League which confirmed that any clubs expelled from the League for reasons of bankruptcy or ground problems would not be replaced. This is because the League feels that the Premiership will shortly be reduced by two clubs, and they want to make room for these two clubs. This implies that the League is basically relying on two of its member clubs going under in time for any Premiership.  This is nothing short of scandalous. The League should be taking steps to protect its members, not taking advantage of any troubles they might have. 

4 February 2000

LAND DEAL SIGNED!

The Minchery Farm land deal between Oxford City Council and Firoz Kassam was signed today at Oxford Town Hall at 12:18pm. A press release has been issued, as follows:

Oxford United Chairman, Firoz Kassam welcomed the signing of the final agreement for the transfer of the land between Oxford City Council and Oxford United which will enable Mr. Kassam to appoint Building Contractors and re-start work on the half-built stadium at Minchery Farm.

Mr. Kassam said, "We have been working hard to secure this deal since the Heads of Terms were signed. The finalisation of this deal provides a vital step forward towards completing the stadium.

"It has been a complex and protracted negotiation. I am grateful to John Tanner and the City Council for giving their support to my efforts towards securing the long term future of Oxford United Football Club."

John Tanner said, "I am thrilled that at last we have a detailed agreement with Mr. Kassam."

Mr. Kassam continued, "I would also like to pay tribute to Oxford United’s Supporters and, in particular, FOUL (Fighting for Oxford United’s Life) for their enormous help in securing this deal."

HURDLES STILL TO BE OVERCOME

The land deal is now signed, but there are still four hurdles to be overcome, namely:

1. Thames Water. John Tanner said of the covenant issue, "Thames Water claim that they should have a share of the increased value of the land and the City Council and Mr. Kassam have been negotiating with Thames Water and those negotiations are not complete yet."
2. Nick Pentith. Tanner said of his JR appeal, "We also have the challenge in the High Court from Nick Pentith and the British Propery Board. They are seeking permission for a Judicial Review."
3. Les Wells. Here's FK on the subject of Wells' claimed right-of-way across Minchery Farm land: "The caution put in by Les Wells on the stadium site is an issue that is being addressed currently."
4. Morrells Brewery. This is a new one on me, and I know little about it. Here's FK again: "A covenant has been given to Morrells Brewery - again we are in discussion with them. It would be a shame to build a new stadium and not being able to sell alcohol."

Tanner was even more bullish, saying, "It's been a little longer than we had both hoped, but we are now home and dry. I hope that there will be nothing now standing in the way to get the stadium completed and the rest of the Minchery Farm project up and running as soon as possible. I am sure that Firoz Kassam will make that happens."

ALDRIDGE TRIBUTE TOMORROW

Oxford play host to Blackpool in a crucial relegation match tomorrow, but the match is overshadowed by the death of Martin Aldridge last weekend. A minute's silence will be held, and members of both teams will wear black armbands. Such an event inevitably puts the supposed seriousness of a football match in its place. What do relegation battles matter when placed in such a context?

DENIS UNPAID?

An unconfirmed rumour is that Denis Smith is not being paid, and will claim only expenses. The same source states that he is looking to bring in some West Brom players on loan. Former U's winger Mark Angel and left back Graham Potter (both on the transfer list at the Hawthorns) have been mentioned.

Meanwhile, The Modest One has been talking himself up again. Take it away, Denis: "You only have to look at my track record to see that I have always produced goalscorers. I had Lee Hughes at West Brom, Paul Moody and Nigel Jemson here and, before that, Andy Cole and Marco Gabbiadini. The way I set my teams up always produces goals and I can guarantee now, that by the time I'm finished here, I will have found the supporters a goalscorer and give them a new hero."

And another boast: "You just have to look at my signing of Enzo Maresco at West Brom. He came to the club on a free transfer and moved to Juventus for £4.3m earlier this week so I'm good in the transfer market."

Take note of this statement though - "If things go wrong from now, it's all my fault, but I can assure you all that if things don't work out, then it will not be through the lack of trying."

KASSAM QUASHES SWINDON MERGE RUMOURS

A bizarre report from the Oxford Mail claims that Firoz Kassam has denied reports (which never reached me) that Oxford and Swindon would merge to solve their respective financial problems. FK said, "There is absolutely no way I would even consider it. There's no question about it really. I'm sure they wouldn't consider it and I certainly won't. After all, nobody helped me out when we were in trouble!" 

DENIS SMITH APPOINTED MANAGER

Oxford have today ended Mickey Lewis' time as manager and replaced him with former manager Denis Smith. This was not unexpected, and I thought such a move was on the cards sooner rather than later. As you probably know by now, I am not a fan of Denis Smith. I think he is arrogant, has an over-inflated view of his own managerial ability, and is extremely disloyal. Having said that, I am in no doubt that he will do a better job for Oxford than Mickey Lewis has.

This could be a good appointment if it is only until the end of the season. If Denis can keep us up (and that is surely what he has been hired to do) then he can be replaced by a truly class manager next season - after all Kassam has hinted that he will invest in the team next season so that we can mount a promotion push.

Mickey Lewis and Les Taylor have been retained on the coaching staff. I am very pleased about this. They were thrown in at the managerial deep end, and I felt sorry for them more than anything else during their period in charge of the team. Reportedly Lewis was keen to get Denis on board - this is a tribute to the way Lewis puts the club before himself. He should be praised for this selfless attitude.

Kassam's full statement at the press conference was as follows:

"I am delighted to be able to report that we are fortunate to have secured the services of former manager Denis Smith to strengthen the coaching team here at the Manor. You will not need to be told that the results recently have been disappointing despite the excellent work that has been put in by Mickey Lewis and Les Taylor. Whilst they have been undertaking the First Team coaching duties, they have both had to ensure their other roles within the club were fulfilled. This has placed a great strain on Mickey Lewis and Les and their colleagues who have supported them so well.

The appointment of as manager Denis Smith, who was so successful here previously, brings added experience to the coaching team whilst lifting some of the burden from Mickey's and Les's shoulders. It is imperative that we move out of the relegation zone as soon as possible. I believe that the appointment of Denis and the combination of his skills and experience with those of Mickey and Les will provide a winning combination".

More from Denis : "I would not have taken the job if I did not think I could keep the club up. I have got my reputation to think of. This is a job I think I can do." Which reputation is this exactly?

LAND DEAL DELAYS

If the land deal is not signed by the end of this week, then it will be a further ten days before any more progress can be made. This is because the solicitor acting on Kassam's behalf will be away for the whole of next week. But, of course, Tanner assured us it would be signed and sealed this week. Yeah right...

SECOND MULTIPLEX NOT YET APPROVED

Contrary to reports on this site yesterday, the George Street multiplex plans have not yet been approved by the City Council. The plans have in fact been deferred until a later (unknown) date.

SNIPPETS

The reserves lost 2-0 at Bournemouth yesterday afternoon. At least it was an improvement on the first team result.

Andre Arendse was rested for South Africa's final group game in the African Nations Cup, a 1-1 draw with Algeria. Hans Vonk deputised for Arendse in the South African goal. The next match for South Africa is their quarterfinal clash with Ghana on Sunday evening. 

WE'RE SHIT AND THE REF HATES US...
(OXFORD 0 PRESTON 4)

Right. Lose to Blackpool, draw even, and Lewis has got to be replaced. It will then be time for a salvage operation. Perhaps we ought to call for Big Ron? Kassam could afford his salary for four months. Especially after saving money on the cheap option of Mickey Lewis. Sadly Lewis has shown clearly that he has been thrown in at the deep end, and doesn't have the knowledge or experience to cope. Kassam has said about the prospect of relegation, "I don't want to even think about it." Time to start thinking, FK...

As for last night, the less said the better. For a twenty minute spell before half-time, the U's created some chances, and as usual failed to convert them. For the other seventy minutes we looked like a side already adjusted to the level of division three. The referee didn't help, with Preston's first and third goals originating from non-existent free-kicks. Nigel Jemson looked classy in the first half, and was one of the only players who seemed to care at all. His presence will be crucial in the months ahead. So will the presence of a new centre back to fill in for Watson's absence.

The funniest part about last night was the piece in the programme comparing Steve Anthrobus with Jon Macken. One of them has scored 20 goals this season, whilst the other has managed four shots on target all season. I'll leave you to guess which is which.

And, NO, we do NOT want Denis Smith back thank you.

ANOTHER MULTIPLEX FOR OXFORD

Oxford City Council has reportedly approved plans for a seven screen multiplex cinema on the current ABC site in George Street. Unless Pentith is the developer (unlikely), he's going to mighty angry. Incidentally, FOUL has always made it clear that there was room for more than one multiplex in Oxford, so this news should (hopefully) have no effect on Kassam's multiplex development at Minchery Farm.

NO LAND DEAL THIS WEEK?

FOUL have apparently heard that the land deal will not be signed this week, contrary to Joh Tanner's assurances on the BBC on Saturday. No reason for this delay has been given.

LEWIS - SQUAD IS GOOD ENOUGH

Mickey Lewis is reported as saying on Thames Valley FM that "we do not need any new blood in the team". What? Even when Mark Watson is away?  And does Lewis realise that if the players are good enough, and we're still not getting good results, then it must be the manager's fault?

CONDOLENCES FOR MARTIN ALDRIDGE

A Northampton Town fan has set up a book of condolences for Martin Aldridge. Do leave a message.

HARRY THOMPSON DIES

Former manager, Harry Thompson, died this week, at the age of 84. Thompson was the first manager of the club after it turned professional in 1949, and he managed the club, then called Headington United, until 1958. He established the club in the then-professional Southern League, and laid the foundations for the club's successful entry into the Football League under Arthur Turner.

SWINDON IN ADMINISTRATION

Rising debts have forced local rivals Swindon into voluntary administration. Buchler Phillips, a name known well to U's fans, have been appointed as the administrators. They made their name in football by helping Barnet out of crisis in the early 90s.

Whilst always hoping that Swindon lose any given match, I certainly wouldn't want to see them go out of business, and I wish them well in getting out of their current financial mire.

ARENDSE IN ACTION AGAIN

Andre Arendse will play in South Africa's third group match in the African Nations Cup today. South Africa take on Algeria, needing to avoid defeat to finish as group winners. Bafana Bafana (as South Africa are known to their supporters) have already qualified for the quarter-finals, and Algeria need just a point to be sure of joining them in the next phase. There is live coverage on Eurosport from 4pm.

RESERVES IN ACTION

The reserves play away at Bournemouth today, kick-off at 2pm. Last time they followed a 5-0 first team defeat with an identical scoreline. I wonder if they'll lose 4-0 today then... 

PRESTON TONIGHT

Oxford face third-placed Preston North End tonight in the first of two crucial home matches this week. If Oxford are to avoid sliiping into the lowest division for the first time in over thirty years, they must rebuild Fortress Manor. The U's have won just three home matches all season, the same number as they have won away.

Joey Beauchamp will hopefully be back after an ankle injury kept him out of Saturday's match, but with Ross Weatherstone and Neil McGowan out for the season, it is in defence where Lewis now faces problems. At least Mark Watson is still available - he departs for the Confederation Cup in California in a week's time. Paul Powell is likely to slip back into defence to replace McGowan, with Beauchamp taking up his preferred slot on the wing (if fit). Meanwhile Nigel Jemson will play his first home match for the U's in two years. It will be interesting to see how the crowd responds to him. Hopefully he will be given a fulsome greeting.

Preston, with an excellent away record over the past two seasons, will hopefully be suffering the hangover from their loss at Everton in the FA Cup. They will be without injured winger Lee Cartwright, and captain Sean Gregan faces a late fitness test. Michael Jackson is also struggling with a "bad" injury.