So, I was on my way back from a week's snowboarding last night, and while queuing up for the easyjet counter in what can only be described as the Terminal 3 shed at Lyon airport, saw Mr Wilkins himself in the queue behind me. (clearly the club are cutting costs big time, although he did have speedy boarding, which is an extra tenner or so)

Managed to grab a few words with him (although I resisted the urge to ask what the f*ck went wrong against Spuds) and turned out he had been to watch the Lyon game that afternoon. Asked him the obvious question - 'See anyone special'- and got the obvious answer - 'Nah'- but given our need for a young, top class striker, and the fact that Lyon have a certain Mr. Benzema, it is not beyond the realms of possibility that he might have been there for a cheeky scouting trip.

Equally, he could have just fancied watching a game of footy, but after what has been a dreadful weekend of football for CFC, the thought of us even entertaining the idea of signing such an exciting player cheered me up a bit, so thought I'd share.

Make of it what you will...

Wilkins on a scouting mission?

perhaps he was sent to France to see if they could import some french mustard for the players ham sandwiches becasue it's as sure as hell the club would not send him for any other reason.

That's right. I don't suppose his distinguished playing career with over 400 appearances combined for Chelsea, Man U and AC Milan, nor his 84 England caps or his experience as assistant coach to Vialli or Dennis Wise would have taught him anything about football! Not to mention his 100% record as Chelsea (caretaker) manager :D

hey listen, I'm a huge fan of Butch, watched him start his career at The Bridge, but he's no No.2, he's not even a No. 3. and as far as I know he has never scouted before (and I'm not talking Baden Powell here)

I do hear they have some great food at the Stade Gerland

I do hear they have some great food at the Stade Gerland

its a long way to go for a pie and a bovril

I'd heard he was sent to spy on snowboarders. In short he's stalking you (well he was behind you in the queue)

To be fair, i do have more flair on a board than Malouda has on the pitch, so maybe he sees some transferable potential?