Planet Swans ArchivesThey appear on the face of it to be a club in turmoil. Beaten 4–2 by Leicester on the opening day of the season they the surrendered meekly at home to Norwich on Saturday by going down by three goals to one.
Such was the standard of the performance there were people heading for the exits after less than an hour of play and the stadium appeared to be more than half empty by the time they netted a late consolation.
It was a tough season for the Black Cats last season but they avoided relegation easier than their North Eastern neighbours in Newcastle and over the course of the summer they appointed Dick Advocaat to the permanent manager’s role.
Advocaat had previously suggested that he would be retiring in the summer but he was talked out of it and you cannot help but wonder now whether he is regretting that decision.
Indeed, when you read his after match comments it is almost like he is dropping a hint about not hanging around for too long at a club that is clearly in turmoil. Not only are things not good on the pitch but it does sound as if there are problems off the pitch too that need to be addressed before they can progress in the Premier League.
Advocaat said: รขโฌลI have a feeling and an idea (behind the clubรขโฌโขs long-term problems), but I have to discuss that with other people.
รขโฌลI have to be diplomatic because I cannot blame anyone. I have to blame myself as well.
รขโฌลYou have to find a solution one way or the other, and I will do what is the best for the club.
รขโฌลBut I cannot go on this way, itรขโฌโขs quite simple.
รขโฌลI have to find a solution for this team. If we keep playing this way, we have no chance at all and I donรขโฌโขt want that.รขโฌย
The Swans of course cannot afford to show any sympathy to our hosts on Saturday and if that heaps more pressure on them then so be it. This division is a ruthless place and we need to ensure that we put in the performance that we know can bring us the win we want
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