Football

Ken Bates was critisised consistently and vigourously from the day he took over Chelsea. There were very organised groups who collected information on him and his business activities and who campaigned reletlessly against him. Occasionally he did things that were applauded by the supporters and, probably more often, he did things that angered people. Overall, supporters were divided. Most disliked Bates and his ways but I do know some who got on with him. He can be quite personable on a one on one basis albeit in a particularly grufff and idiosyncratic way.

Abramovich brought success to Chelsea. I remember the season before he bought the club realising that we were not in a position to challenge the financial clout of ManU or Arsenal and that we were destined to fight only for third place. He has restored hope and brought success. Three league titles, three FA Cups, a couple of League cup and the Champions League. Would I or any Chelsea supporter have preferred him to take his largess to Tottenham? No. Would the supporters of any club turn that type of backing down? No. Did Man City supporters object when they were given buckets of money? No. Did QPR supporters object when they were bought? No.

There are some people who express the view that Abramovich's time is up. They are a minority. The press would like Chelsea supporters to turn on Abramovich as this might drive him away. It would probably deprive us of the hope that he has brought. It will not happen.

Benitez was booed by a minority of people at tthe game last night and then only after the final whistle. I suspect that many who booed were the irregulars who have only recently come to football. Last night's game was scheduled less than a fortnight ago. Many season ticket holders were unable to attend.

Benitez either does not understand or care about the views of supporters. He does not appreciate that Chelsea has to beat sides like QPR Fulham and West Ham. We don't need to beat Aston Villa 8-0. That score waas nice but not essential. Beating other London sides is essential, particularly those at the lower end of the table.

Good job I'm not paying for this, it'd cost me a fortune at your hourly rate.

You missed my point completely, when Bates was cosied up with the FA, I don't recall Chelsea fans complaining in the way you are now complaining about United. Nor did Arsenal fans complain when David Dein was doing something similar.