O Nicky O Nicky You don’t understand

Nicky Butt fails to understand the position he has in the club. Two years ago he could have joined us as an England international and a Manchester United captain. 6 months later with his credentials somewhat diminished he turned us down to go to Newcastle.

Six months ago he came to Blues reluctantly with credibility completely gone. Did he think that he had nothing to prove? Did he think that Blues fans were dancing in the isles because Brucie had at long last got his man? No Nicky, the fans don’t take kindly to people who don’t want to play for us. Robbie Savage fooled us for three seasons with his all action approach and occasional badge kissing. Realising that it was all an act they turned on their hero and Robbie might never be seem at St Andrews again.

Nicky Butt had the perfect platform to resurrect his waning career. Had he rolled his sleeves up and had a go he would have surely regained his form and won the hearts of his employers. (That’s who employs you Nick the Fans!)

Instead he tried to do as little as possible getting through games on minimum effort and involvement. Chairman David Sullivan who often speaks from the heart of the fans vented his anger when Butt managed to get suspended for 4 games. Butt again with the opportunity to shove the comments back down the chairman’s throat merely muddled along. A half decent display against Fulham and the winning goal allowed Bruce to defend him but by Monday night at West Ham there could be no defence.

Butt had not featured when Blues have played well in the last few weeks. His return to the side corresponded with a return to ineptitude. His presence deflates the fans, his effort effects the other players. He has not produced and the fine after his walk out arguably is the first time he has given value for money this season.

Inside Nicky Butt circa 2006 is a Nicky Butt circa 1999 trying to get out. If the apology he gave to the club and fans is to mean anything then 13 effort games would be a minimum to wipe out the rest of what he owes Blues. If Blues go down fairly or unfairly he will be judged the reason why.