Communication from Peter Varney

This blog has received a communication from Charlton chief executive, Peter Varney, in relation to recent comments on this blog. I do not intend to reproduce his comments here as I regard them as a private communication. In addition, I think it best that the controversy surrounding Brian Cole's dismissal is left to come naturally to a close (our piece was commenting on a 4-4-2 story which brought it back into the limelight).

We did not approach Peter Varney for his account of events because this is only a fan's blog (of which there are many) and we did not think he would have the time to respond. It is clear, however, that he believes that there is an alternative account of events to those presented here.

This blog has deplored attacks on players and club employees before and reiterates that position again. The club is entitled to take any necessary security measures to prevent a repetition of such attacks.

Peter Varney considers that criticisms of the programme made in this blog are ill founded given the fact that it has one of the highest sales ratios in the country and has received high levels of approval in fan surveys. This is not, however, grounds for complacency.

What I would say is that the reputation that Charlton has built up for being a listening club that has good communications with its supporters could easily be lost. Of course, a Premiership club has to adopt a different style and become more of a business. Whilst I do not doubt the dedication and sincerity of Peter Varney or any of the board, I am not the only fan to perceive a growing gulf between the club's leadership and its supporters.