Possibly...

... But to be honest, I still can't see it. Balls' rise to prominence (and to being lambasted by Mick Dennis) has been fascinating: I can just about recall when the EDP first asked him for his views. It was in the immediate aftermath of Bruce Rioch's exit - and suddenly, before we knew it, he had his own regular column. Every fan's dream, really...

I'm not even sure if he's that popular, though. My chief problem with Balls is I regard him as leaning in whichever way the wind is pointing: he can be somewhat fickle at times. And if there's a naffer way of referring to the XI he would pick than 'Rich Pickings'... well, I've yet to think of one.

As mentioned already, it's Steve Gedge who I have the most time for: the man just talks the utmost sense, and constantly demonstrates not just an ability to write, but a highly impressive understanding of the game too. I'd certainly have no problem if HE became Archant's main man - but as with Balls, I honestly can't see it: mainly because their chief journalists need to maintain contacts and access with key figures at the club. And I can't imagine any fan being able to achieve such a status.

Posted By: thebigfeller, Sep 30, 09:18:08