Heard on the sidelines # 2801

It was the grand return we have all been waiting for - the Butch is back, and he's mean. Obviously done a bit of practice - remember that great surge forward, big chest and control, a shot from about 30 meters, arguing with his marker who claimed Mike was all hands and pushes (who Mike?). Anyway, great to have you back Mike, and a successful return (if a little longer than you hoped for!).

In Rauru's car on the way out, that was a bit of gentle jostling with the Butch, especially about the best way to welcome him back with his first touch: a huge switch from left to right under pressure? A pass back with attacker's charging? Definitely something in the air that demands some major control? All was all very funny.

An hour later, Mike makes his eagerly anticipated return, jogging past David in the midfield, he tells the ringin not to expect much, hops into position. Immediately David is under pressure and passes back to Mike and the build up comes true. Butch's first touch after the return, strikers charging, muddy field, weak pass - of course Butch stands up and calmly hacks it as far away as he can, I'm sure he didn't know or care where. It was better than watching a Ronaldo stepover or a Messi dummy run.

The Butch is back.