Countdown Begins

Monday 3rd August

Things not going too well on the field in pre-season so off -field matters are now starting to dominate thoughts. The club have announced new ticket policies for home and away matches and the message-boards are awash with fans worried they will not be able to see their idols this season. Tickets for Stoke go on sale tomorrow and, as a Foundation member, there is an outside chance I might be able to get a ticket for a few games. However, am resigned to seeing less live fixtures than in previous seasons.

Tuesday 4th August

News breaks that six Clarets have been called up for their countries. Seems crazy that international games are scheduled a few days before the season starts. What price at least one player picking up an injury and being unavailable for the Potteries ?

Originally unavailable for the Stoke game I now realise that I will be able to go after all. Make a note to call the Foundation Office first thing tomorrow but must remember to cross fingers, knees and toes before doing so.

Wednesday 5th August

' I don't suppose you have any tickets left for Stoke ?'

A hushed silence as the safe is opened and the Foundation staff come back on the line and declare that yes, they have a few left.

Frantic calls to my brother ensue. On holiday in France he decides to take time out from his busy schedule by the pool and begin his own quest for tickets. News later is mixed - he has managed to get two for him and one son. My other nephew misses out though and some tricky selection decisions may dominate their journey home.

Thursday 6th August

Start to think about travel for Stoke. Looks like the train is the best option though cheapest price appears to be £47. Oh well, has to be worth it to see the Clarets.

Off to Fulham in the evening to see a Europa League game. It lashes down and mission is aborted early. Fulham subsequently score two late goals to win 3-0. Reach home to discover another pre-season reverse for Owen Coyle's boys - 0-1 against Kilmarnock.

Friday 7th August

Stoke ticket arrives - marvellous. Can't wait for the season to start. Championship season does begin tonight and it is odd that Burnley aren't involved. Still, for the next nine months at least we are a Premier League side so can relax for a while yet. Middlesbro and Sheffield United grind out a goal-less draw so we're not missing much. Chelsea tickets are on sale next week at a knock-down £44 or £47. Make a note to sell my body to raise funds though not sure if 12p will make too much difference.

Saturday 8th August

One week to go and the final pre-season game against St Johnstone results in another defeat for Burnley. Foolishly decide to watch The Ashes to cheer myself up. England finish the day on not so many for quite a lot. Heavy trouncing beckons as I pack the missus off for a week in Spain and start to prepare for the new season.