Bob Bradley

The first in a series of poems taking managers from the 2016-17 English Premier League (football/soccer) as inspirations.

Bob Bradley 
Disappointed me. 
A wasted opportunity 
On the Severn Estuary. 

Wait, that’s Cardiff; 
Swansea’s the other one. 

There. 

When Bradley was unveiled 
Holding a scarf above his 
Serious American face 
I thought, Ha! 

A film starring Ed Harris. 
Misunderstandings over leeks and lovespoons. 
Local mistrust overcome 
To triumph 
(Or at least a decent cup run). 

This Working Title Production 
Would, at last, rebuke 
The “It’s football 
Not “soccer” brigade.” 

But bloody Bradley 
Was no bloody good, 
To the comfort of racists and 
Disquiet of those who feel 
Deep down 
That Americans are always a bit better.

Author's Note

Requires a little knowledge of the English football world.