Looking at the table after our third defeat in a row and seeing us rock bottom with no goals scored, I thought of Dad’s Army’s Lance Corporal Jones, and his famous phrase ‘Don’t panic Mr Mainwaring’.
He always used it typically when he himself was panicking – or in danger of doing so – and I think that pretty much sums up my feelings at the moment.
I am projecting publicly a mantra of ‘Don’t panic’ but the tone of my voice and my innermost thoughts would suggest I am concerned and close to hitting the panic button.
September is going to be a critical month in shaping our season. With games coming up against Chelsea, Newcastle and Everton plus two Europa Conference League ties, it could be a confidence-boosting or shattering month.
If we turn up, we can give both Chelsea and Newcastle a run for their money but based on recent performances, we’ll lose both.
Everton would therefore become an early season six-pointer and that will be a nervy Sunday afternoon.
Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t think we’d be top of the league as we were this time last season but I certainly expected a better return of points from our games against Forest, Brighton and Villa.
Speaking of Brighton, we need to find a way of overcoming them. Their victory last month was their fourth in our last 10 matches – we’ve drawn with them six times.
We also need to find a way of rediscovering the form that has secured European football for two seasons.
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