Its at times like this I am called to Scripture: Matthew 20: 1-16 So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny. And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house, Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day. But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good? So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen. Mackie fell foul of this moral. According to Nines' Bricky anyway
A bit harsh Stan. As we know once Harold has decided against you there is no way back in. The difference is that players like Taarabt did what they had to if they wanted to play first team football. Others like Diakite, SWP, bloody Luke Young and our Julio are happy to sit rot and scratch their testicles between pay cheques. He was easily good enough for this League and wasn't prepared to be fourth fiddle behind Zamora, Johnson, and SWP for the chance to play with Charlie Austin every so often. In hindsight perhaps he did make a mistake given the limited game time that Zamora and Johnson have managed between them. He might well have done what he did two years ago and claim a place in the starting line up by a few gut busting impact sub performances
His reasons for leaving were obvious, he played far better than several other squad members who were paid far more than him. Who would'nt move if only for sanitys sake. He was a Loyal club servant and will always be welcome back where ever we may be. Thick as 2 short planks but loved his heart.
We gave him a rousing cheer when he took to the pitch on Boxing Day, and when he was substituted. he didn't even glance in the direction of the Rs fans.
Would have him over the majority of our midfield and forwards. Answers on a postcard for what Benayoun brings to the table. Mackie gives you a lot more than what his ability as a footballer suggests.