In for a Penney

After the shambolic disappointment of yesterday's late postponement at Peterborough United, Charlton signed a much needed left-back which suggest to me that this laboured takeover by the American investment house still has legs.

Postponement first - someone at Peterborough messed-up really badly yesterday. It looks like they took a chance on the game going ahead in order to maximise ticket sales and failed to mention a late pitch inspection until, well until it was too late. Having told Charlton on Friday that the match would go ahead because of covers and heaters, they were tripped-up by part of the pitch caught in the shadow of the main stand which remained frozen. The final inspection at 1.30pm appears to have erong-footed the whole Charlton delegation and with 1700-odd fans already in Peterborough or very close, it was a real kick in the teeth.

Boro boss, Darragh MacAnthony, was clearly embarrassed and said he would 'sort it' for travelling supporters. To be fair, he has since announced free coaches and free match tickets to the rescheduled match for all those who made the fruitless trip yesterday. 

Then news late yesterday that we have finally signed a left-footed attacking wing-back. Twenty-four year old Matt Penney joins on another short-term loan from Ipswich until the end of the season. Credit to whomever has pushed for this, although I suspect it signals that the American investment house takeover is still on. Penney's wages will likely mean a hit to the bottom-line, so I fully expect us to cut someone else from the wage bill, if not sell a player. The end of January and the transfer window looms, so I expect an announcement re ownership in the next ten days. 

As if to add to our woes, Barnsley made short work of Accrington Stanley yesterday to put nine points and eight places between us. Play-offs at this stage is unrealistic but it would still be good to get a top-ten finish and renewed hope for next season. Everything will depend on what money is available in the Summer and if we can retain the better players in this squad. As I have said previously, if this American investment group gets the club, the published plans will threaten our future once again.