Written by Geofspurs
And now for something completely different from ‘speculation’ and ‘who should play where’!
Before the ‘recent’ invasion of foreign owners with their obscene money took over the world game there was a time when English football clubs worked hard to build the foundation for what is considered by many to be the most competitive league in world football.
Many of these ‘historically significant’ clubs are now plying their trade below the top division of English football or are seen to be struggling in the Premiership. Many have suffered from the inability to compete with the current financial climate of world football. Sadly, time has seen many of them fade into relative obscurity. But the history of these clubs, and what they have achieved across decades of our great sport, should never lose the respect it deserves.
Burnley, Wolves, Huddersfield, Aston Villa, Preston, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, Sheffield Wednesday, Bolton, Newcastle, are all clubs which are no longer considered power-houses of English football, but which have contributed so much to its development. Each of these clubs have experienced periods of relative ‘greatness’ in their history. They have all ‘been there and done it’. But, for most of them, the only way back to the top would appear to be dependent on finding a ‘football sugar-daddy’ to take them there. So they shouldn’t hold their breath!
Supporters who have been around for a while, or who have delved more into the game’s history, will understand the impact these clubs have had on developing football in England. It’s obviously harder for younger supporters to understand the ‘bigger picture’. For older supporters, some of these clubs hold fond memories of special rivalry in the past, of great games and fluctuating fortunes involving their relationship with Spurs.
Personally, of the clubs mentioned above, I am glad to see Burnley playing in the Premiership and am also hoping that Wolves will attain the same status next season. As for the others, the future must appear bleak when compared to the past. But most football supporters have a ‘die-hard’ attitude toward the clubs they are connected to and accept the reality of football, the good and the bad, as they continue to take enjoyment from the game.
It would be easy for supporters to dismiss history and say, ‘I don’t care about any other club, just Spurs’. But it would also be ridiculous. It would show a lack of understanding of football and ignore the reality that, without opposition, Spurs would cease to exist. One thing is certain; each of these clubs has earned respect, albeit from past achievements!
So, I’m wondering, which clubs are thought of ‘fondly’ by VS members from the time you have supported Spurs?