Poxy times!? - - The official of Paul Hayes

Poxy times!? - 03/12/2003

Having been subbed at half time on Saturday, I bet a number of fans were wondering what was happening. On Thursday I was absolutely shattered and just couldn’t do anything, then I noticed I had spots on my chest. Although I started against Darlington, I just couldn’t continue after the break and the Gaffer had no alternative but to throw Steve Torpey on. I’d actually developed chicken pox – something I’ve never had before. In adults shingles can be quite nasty, but I hope I’m over the worst. The doc’s told me to rest for a full week, so I’ll be back in training next Monday.

The timing couldn’t have been worse for me, I’d been doing quite well and after spending a great deal of time on the bench, I was finally getting a bit of a run. The team has also done well, we’ve steadily climbed the table, and although the draw at Darlington was a little disappointing, we’re confidence that we’ll be in the promotion frame. It seems that it’s almost a tradition for Scunthorpe to start slowly and then pick up after Christmas. Well we’ve started to pick up a little earlier this season, and if we can continue the run, then we have to be looking for automatic promotion.

There’s still no news on Steve MacLean situation, but the gaffer did mention that if Steve returns to Rangers, then he’ll look to bring in another young striker. Generally, if a player joins a club on loan – he tends to play, so on a personal front I’d like to think that if another youngster came in, it’d be me partnering him. Only time will tell, and I suppose that the decision will depend on the style of the player and whether he’d be better suited to play alongside me or Steve Torpey.

Its’ the FA Cup this weekend and the visit of Sheff Wed is something that we’ll all looking forward to. I hear that the Telegraph Stand is nearly sold out, so we’re looking forward to a big crowd and a good atmosphere. Also, thanks to Chris Dawson for his email – you keep singing the song and I’ll keep waiving!!