Meet the Manager forum - our view

Last updated : 10 September 2010 By Bladesmadeditor

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The event, which saw all tickets being snapped up, allowed Unitedites to get a real insight into Gary Speed's realistic expectations, the sort of things which happen differently on the training ground now the manager has changed, why he kept the departing Sam Ellis, and we were also informed about some of the fines players pick up, but all funds go to a good cause!

The 7:30PM forum, which lasted for around 1 hour 15 minutes,  was all in good humour, which made it all the more enjoyable but, at the same time, the questions were seriously asked and replied in the same manner.

It wasn't only Gary Speed who was in attendance. Chief Executive Trevor Birch, summer signing Leon Britton and captain Chris Morgan were also involved. The latter was jokingly heavily lambasted, but he took it well.

Morgs actually let it slip out that the Blades have four Argentine youngsters on trial at Shirecliffe. I got the impression that the players totally respect the decision by the board to replace Kevin Blackwell with an inexperienced, but a familiar face at the helm at the club.

Nick Montgomery was dubbed 'not a footballer' by Chris Morgan, but the skipper did point out Monty's possessions and what he offers to the side. It was revealed that Monty was fined for calling Gary Speed 'Gary' instead of gaffer, and another player was also fined for calling him 'Speedo'.

Blades Mad will try to bring you transcripts from the event. It was an enjoyable night out, with Gary Speed really stamping his mark on why he was appointed as the Blades manager, and how he is desperate to get this club where it wants to be.

Well done to all concerned for making it an intriguing fans' forum.