Phileas Fogg

Michael Bolton and Kenny G ideally

Discussion about ex managers is often important context to threads regarding whatever manager is in charge in the present. I think there’s a place for threads about Tammy Abraham and more historical ex-players to be put in a sub forum.. but the Johnson tenure is still important context to the current situation of the club. It’s a bit like when a thread that begins to veer off in a mildly political direction gets thrown in ‘non-football chat’ prematurely.

I agree - but my comments on this thread are about the tweet they chose to put out when there really was no need. Just draws attention to it - hence the thread and replies to their announcement tweet. They should’ve said nothing and it would’ve fizzled out. The club is so obsessed with being politically correct that it definitely spooked them.

What I meant by ‘hadn’t done their research’ is I doubt they (the media dept) even knew of the association.

It’s a terribly worded tweet - who’s ‘we’ in that instance? Also ‘inflammatory remarks’ is, Banks could argue, hugely subjective. What’s funny is the reply has clearly been agreed by a few people given the 4 hour time lag. Just no need to reply at all, so naive.

It’s strange of them to comment on that really it’s unusual they reply to people. The club is so predictable that it’s clear to see what’s happened, as per they didn’t do their research so were panicking.

What is interesting is from seeing which way people have interacted with the first few posts - it does seem to be the more considered/thoughtful posters who are ‘Lansdown-sceptic’. I think that is a good summary of this entire discussion - if you consider the overall context and nuance, you’d probably be Lansdown-sceptic. If you are simply happy to go to games, enjoy the new stadium and not give it much thought - you’d probably think they’re great.

What does that mean?

I do think the social media team’s stuff is lazy and low effort. They’re clearly measured on engagement, but that doesn’t mean they need to wish David Clarkson, Neil Kilkenny and Danny Haynes a happy birthday.

Nope he’s gone too. In this alternative history scenario, we actually appoint none other than former Doncaster Rovers chairman John Ryan - for the sole reason he’d agree with me re: atmosphere and placement of away support.

True - I’d be fascinated to see what we’d achieve with RG in his former role, Pearson as a DOF/Tinnion role and LM as head coach - I think that would be a real winning combo. Best attributes of all. It goes without saying that in this alternative-history scenario - Jon Lansdown, Steve Lansdown, all JL’s mates, Mark Kelly, Lisa Knights, the Media team, Downsy etc wouldn’t be involved. Give that setup time and funds and I think we’d get promoted.

I wasn’t that impressed with his interview style personally. Not what his job is though. I just think he gets a very good rep on here but why would anyone really know how good he was at his role? I suppose the fact we don’t indicates he did a good job.

Aside from seemingly having a good working relationship with Pearson and helping to steady the ship financially - how can we know for certain how good he was at his role? We only see the tip of the iceberg

Did well at QPR. Rangers is a strange job, that microcosm of an eternal 2 way battle between Celtic and Rangers which is amplified 10x by all the context of their rivalry is never an easy situation. The brains behind any success Gerrard had apparently. This is the acid test of his ability imo.

Exactly. The majority view seems to be ‘I’m disappointed that Pearson was unfairly sacked, and angry at our board - but will give Manning a fair go” - to me that’s the most rational view. Some have clearly made up their minds already and will actively seek out things that validate that agenda.

Because successful principles will benefit any team. Obviously you adjust them as per the ability level and aptitude of the players.

This is actually pretty camp - and we need plenty more of that on OTIB.

Interestingly, Clarke, Roberts and Pritchard are all (I believe) Lee Johnson signings. I wonder whether he’d have been far better in a role like Tinnion’s than a traditional manager one.

I have a feeling that in a year’s time (provided he gets enough minutes) he’ll be seen as our best player - and key to how we play. He was Pearson’s Knockeart type that he wanted, and I think once he’s up to speed he’ll be very good.

Yeah, no one is disputing that. It's a tool to exploit.

Not really. Data underpins everything. You could argue that use of data could help a less talented squad find alternative ways to win. Some people are real Luddites about data. If you apply that view, why stop there? What’s the point in a gym programme for the players or a good diet if they’re not as talented as Leicester’s squad? All these ‘newfangled’ facets of managing a football team really do seem to spook some people for some reason.

I listened to the press conference (rather than picking out a quote with no context from a printed summary) and I believe this was an answer directly to a question about data.. in which case, what else is he supposed to say in his answer?

Amazing how in one tweet, Pearson is able to write more eloquently and offer more insight than Manning does in the entirety of these programme notes. These could’ve been written by Chat GPT. https://www.bcfc.co.uk/city-men-news/liams-notes-sunderland-afc-h/?fbclid=IwAR0cazhCd-vaSwbZWlEjFNndlgNQ6fTVRWna9KoqO8vtn5OAsklBbjN15Zc_aem_AeEzoJ4jlYWGmGG0JAWs2FM9WaCr78n5hus6ZUh2Qe6Mauxpp8LuKA3PH818csJ_Zoo I asked Chat GPT to write programme notes with the following prompt: “Write me programme notes as if written by Bristol City manager Liam Manning for the upcoming home game on Saturday against Sunderland. The audience is the supporters and it needs to be about a page long. Mention the recent games (draw vs Huddersfield and defeat vs Blackburn) welcome the Sunderland interim coach Mike Dodds” (gave it a couple bits of up to date info as it won’t know it proactively) - it came up with this.. sounds a bit like Manning but is actually more inspiring than the real ones! --- **Bristol City vs Sunderland - Home Game** **Programme Notes by Liam Manning** Dear Robins Faithful, As we gear up for our home clash against Sunderland this Saturday, I want to extend a warm welcome to each of you at Ashton Gate. Your support is our strength, echoing far beyond the stands and directly onto the pitch where it matters most. **Reflecting on Recent Outings** Our recent games have been a mix of emotions and learning. The draw against Huddersfield showcased our resilience and ability to fight back under pressure. Although we didn’t secure the win, the team's spirit and determination were commendable. In contrast, our defeat to Blackburn was a tough pill to swallow. It highlighted areas we need to improve, and rest assured, we have been working tirelessly to address these. **A Welcome to Mike Dodds** I'd like to extend a special welcome to Mike Dodds, Sunderland's interim coach. His reputation for insightful football strategies precedes him, and we expect a well-organized and spirited Sunderland side under his guidance. It's always invigorating to match wits with such capable coaching, and I look forward to the tactical battle that awaits. **The Sunderland Challenge** Sunderland brings a unique set of challenges. Known for their robust playing style and strategic approach, they will be looking to capitalize on any opportunity. However, we are ready. Our preparation has been focused and intense, aiming to harness our strengths and mitigate our vulnerabilities. **Our Tactical Approach** In training, we have emphasized on improving our ball retention and creating more goal-scoring opportunities. We aim to be more dynamic in our attack while maintaining a solid defensive structure. The team is in good spirits, and I have full confidence in their ability to execute our plan effectively. **The Power of Ashton Gate** As always, Ashton Gate is our bastion. The atmosphere you create is our advantage, and we need that more than ever. Your support is not just appreciated; it is integral. Let's make our home ground a fortress where opposing teams fear to tread. **Unity and Support** This game is about more than just the 11 players on the pitch; it's about all of us – the team and the supporters – united in our passion and commitment to Bristol City. Your cheers, your belief, your energy – they all matter. Let's stand together, cheer relentlessly, and drive the team forward to a victory. **Conclusion** We embark on this journey together - players, staff, and supporters. Each game is a step towards our collective goals, and your role in this journey is invaluable. Let's show Sunderland the true spirit of Bristol City and secure a win that echoes our ambition and determination. Together, we rise. **COYR!** Liam Manning Head Coach, Bristol City FC ---

It’s simply because he’s a younger manager I think. Pretty lazy comparison. I think there are lots of valid points of debate about this appointment, but I feel they lose validity if that comparison is made.

Exactly what I’d like to see also. It’s in issues like that where it’s clear to see the board don’t really understand football.