Did we make an offer for Younes Belhanda or not? To be honest, I have no idea and neither does anyone else. Besides Paul Lambert, most likely Gary Karsa, and Belhanda’s agent. Perhaps even the player himself. And Randy. Faulkner, too. My guess is that we talked to someone, but we’re on the outside track, and the regime likes to keep things quiet. Is it a good idea? Does anyone really know?

There are certainly a number of links, which is all well and good. Some seem probable. I’m glad the Tonev business got done quickly, because it seems to bear out Lambert’s intentions to get signings are real. We’ll see what happens next.

So, to matters more personal. I had a few beers tonight, Titans, an IPA by Great Divide, which is located a few blocks from my house. Very hoppy and refreshing, which is the way things roll right now in the States. They were accompanied by an egg and chorizo burrito smothered in green chile from Chubby’s, which has to be one of the most successful Mexican carry-outs in history, despite a fractious, city-wide family battle over the brand. Then I watched Dodgeball again. Who doesn’t love Patches?

It was 98ºF here today, which is a bit excessive for early summer. This explains the lethargy.

Anyway,I tried to think of something football related, and I failed. With all the great discussions of late, I think we’ve just about covered it all for now. I might go see some Group A Gold Cup games here in Denver. Mexico are playing Martinique, and Canada are playing Honduras. It’s a double-header, so worth a ticket. Mexico are much more entertaining than the USMNT.

Tomorrow has the Dandy Warhols coming to town, so I’ll go see them with the girlfriend, go see Cracker on Friday with my daughter. Been a good concert season so far. I have to say, the Joy Formidable really impressed.

My son, Eben, is getting ready to go off to college in the fall, so it’s a bittersweet summer, and not just because of the tuition and lack of football. He’s just going up the road to the University of Colorado in Boulder, so I’ll still be seeing a fair bit of him. And Boulder’s a pretty great place, how I ended up here.

Naturally, I’m glad he’s leaving the nest, because that’s what they’re supposed to do. Still, he’s a good kid, good company, a cheerful presence with a big heart and a love of life. I’ll miss him. Does the dishes without being asked. The bathroom, not so much. He makes sure he always has a job, and I like that. Right now he’s stealing beer. Kids are an expense. He wanted to race up to the carry out and I managed a draw.

Actually, he’s contesting my characterization. He jumped at the corner and slid across the street, albeit unintentionally. “I bit it. I deserve the win.” What say you?

Never mind.

And then there’s Villa. Again. What to say?

I’m pleased Andi Weimann signed a new deal. Hard to believe he’s only 21. The kid works his ass off, and I’m glad to see him extend his stay. I hope Christian Benteke stays as well, because I think the Belgian’s presence had no small part in Andi’s breakout campaign, and I just enjoyed the things that happened. They seem to have a good understanding and I just can’t help but like a ‘kid’ that gives so much to the team. He’s got a great scowl, too.

Take note, Mr. Delfouneso.

So now I think I’ll just turn it over to you. It’s short for me, but no one will mind. And If you’re wondering about green chile, just go to New Mexico once in your life. The light is magical, lots of golden dust in the air, and the chile…it’s just about perfect.

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