Lampsie, JT and co are told not to make time for the fans

It’s the sort of thing that usually happens before the start of the season, but yesterday 8,000 Chelsea fans gathered at Stamford Bridge for an open day training session.

Such events are usually conducive to a positive and relaxed atmosphere, where lucky fans can get pictures and autographs with their heroes, who are not distracted by the pressure of a big matchday.

Not so at Chelsea. Supporters who made the effort yesterday were told over the tannoy system that the players would not sign anything, citing “safety concerns”. The club’s decision to protect their players from RSI and carpal tunnel syndrome was not well receieved:

After a 90-minute practice session

Newcastle manager relives his glory days

Around 7,500 die-hard Magpies turned up at St. James’ Park yesterday as Newcastle held an open training session.

Instead of watching his players and giving coaching tips, Alan Shearer decided his time would be best spent by having a kick about. Even though the cameraman fails to document Shearer connecting with the ball, we see his resultant shot ripple the back of the net. (Enjoy it until the YouTube boo boys take it down.)

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