SORRY the blog's late this week. I've been scratching around for inspiration but will have to admit defeat I'm afraid.

You could just read last week's blog and it would be relevant again this week. We haven't played any football and have been training at the Stadium in either the gym or on the astro-turf.

It's almost like pre-season in the sense that we've been concentrating on our fitness levels. These are great but what we need now is to get a game in. It's been said a million times before but there is a difference between general fitness and match fitness.

I watched Liverpool lose last night and, as a Blue, had to have a little chuckle to myself. They're struggling big time at the moment and I don't know when it will get better for them. It's given me the chance to have a bit of banter though, which has kept my spirits up.

We're all just praying that Saturday's game beats the weather. I had a little walk on to the pitch this morning and, under the covers, it felt pretty soft. Hopefully, the snow will all be cleared by tomorrow and the groundstaff can work their magic.

Really hope to see you Saturday!

Mark Hughes