Reading a Christian magazine the other day I came across an article explaining how this year had been a time of rebuilding, renewing and reinvigorating (or something similar, I paraphrase). This isn't uncommon talk for Christian organisations to use, but even if you're not familar with the world of para-church ministry then you're probably still familiar with the language. You've certainly heard similar language if you follow a middle-of-the-table football team like all the best people do. The first season I followed Ipswich Town, Joe Royle made a big deal about how this season was a time of change and renewing, getting the new side prepared and the team working together, in preparation for the big push next year. The first season I believed him. Four seasons and the same language is being used and really, I'm not so conviced. The short of it is this; the language of renewing, rebuilding, getting the new team ready is language that's only used to explain why you're doing nothing now. It doesn't just affect middling teams either, listen to people talk about Arsenal now and they say the same thing.
I'm not saying it's ever true, but it just seems to be a bit over-used. If you're not doing well, then why don't you say so?
(8) Bleed For Me - Black Label Society
"From Derby boss Billy Davies: 'Jim is very much rebuilding and I'm sure that over the course of time you will see him doing a very good job.'"
" But [Former Ipswich Town legend Roger] Osborne thinks Magilton will have his work cut out at Portman Road and believes he will have to spend next season rebuilding the team.
'They are not the best side in the world and it's going to take a lot of hard work and enthusiasm to turn that around,' "
And so forth.
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Paul
Joe Royle is no longer rebuilding the Ipswich Town Squad. Obviously we must be better now.