Jan 10 2008 Allardyce Sopranos Anne Frank

Phones hot in Machray household yesterday afternoon evening as news broke of Sam Allardyce departure as Newcastle boss.

Split opinion: 'Ridiculously short time to give anyone' was the over-riding view but 'he was a disaster and would never be the right man' came a close second.

I am in despair and certain that the next appointment will be disastrous. Newcastle gets you that way. Hope is a luxury you cannot afford. Newcastle United is not a passion - it's a disease.

Into final episodes of Sopranos now, my fire rekindled after doing the Sopranos tour whilst in New York.

The trip ended in the Bada Bing Strip Club - to the delight of my 15-year-old son.

'Have you ever been in a strip club before, dad? He asked.

If only he knew.

Determined to try to do as much Capital of Culture visiting as I possibly can. Going to the opening ceremonies on Friday and Saturday and hoping to get along to the Ann Frank Exhibition, maybe Sunday. Has anyone been yet?