Let’s not pretend watching in bed takes commitment
NOTHING against Sir Patrick Stewart, who is undoubtedly a genuine Huddersfield fan. But the photograph of him enjoying the club’s first Premier League victory summed up why Richard Scudamore was wrong to equate the investment of supporters abroad and those who actually go to the games. Stewart, of necessity, must spend a lot of time out of this country. According to the image he posted on Saturday, he was in Canada when his team put three past Crystal Palace. The picture shows Stewart, in his Huddersfield shirt, arms aloft in celebration, watching the game on his laptop. He also appears to be in bed.
Meaning, when the final whistle blows he can, if he wishes, roll over and go back to sleep. At this point, those that actually went to the game are embarking on a good five hours back to Huddersfield. From where Crystal Palace is located it can take two hours just to get to the M1. And no doubt it was a grand journey home.
It always is when your team wins 3-0. But this is Huddersfield. They won’t always win 3-0 away, and it won’t always be a pleasant August afternoon, either. Most weekends it will be cold and wet, because football in the northern hemisphere is played in winter.
And while this does not apply to the loyal Sir Patrick — president of the Huddersfield Town academy since 2010 — a website called The Dugout reveals another little difference with foreign fans. The Dugout is aimed at supporters in Asia and allows them to sign for updates on their favourite clubs and players. It is based on research that suggests fans in Asia follow on average six clubs in Europe, often multiples within the same league.
They have similar attachment to players, too. So if Neymar leaves Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain, his Asian fans follow.
So a little more respect from Scudamore is due. Fans abroad can still be passionate and committed. But if you can watch the match propped up by pillows, or Liverpool are one of the six clubs you support, don’t ever think it is the same.