What a performance and what a result against Arsenal. We know we are capable of playing like that so it was amazing to see the performance rewarded with three points. Superb showings all around the squad but a special mention to the Guernsey Kaka, Alex Scott. Get him on the plane in the summer, Mr Tuchel. His confidence, calmness and composure are just a joy to watch and he offers something different to other England midfielders.
Arsenal's Declan Rice (left) challenges Bournemouth's Alex Scott during the Premier League match at Emirates Stadium, London. Picture date: Saturday April 11, 2026. (Image: Adam Davy/PA Wire)
Another big away game today. Last time, I made the trip to Newcastle for the FA Cup game but won’t be making it this week due to reasons I will talk about later. Let's hope the old boss still can't get his win over us (the cup win on penalties doesn't count), and we can keep our unbeaten form going as we push for Europe in this final run of games before Andoni leaves us (I'm not crying, you are).
Yes, of course, we were hit with the news that Andoni Iraola will be leaving us this summer. I feel like the time to write more about him can wait until nearer the time of departure, or maybe, I'm just not ready to accept it yet.
Sophie Quirk (Image: Richard Crease)
AFCB women's were also involved in a 2-1 game. Unfortunately, the ladies were on the wrong side of that result after really dominating Real Bedford for large portions of the game. They were just unable to get the job done in the final third. Manager, Helen Bleazard, asked me to give the girls a talk before the game about dealing with pressure. I spoke to them about how pressure is only present when opportunity arises, which leads me nicely on to me and my next opportunity.
I have signed a new promotional deal with Zuffa Boxing which is headed up by Dana White (UFC) and I will be back boxing on Sky Sports. The reasons I accepted this deal are simple:
Chris Billam-Smith arrives during the grand arrivals at The Pelligon, London. (Image: Bradley Collyer/PA Wire)
They are a huge company who have significant dealings in the entertainment world, including links to WWE, so they understand all goings on in the industry.
As mentioned, they have partnered with Sky Sports, the best platform for sports in the UK.
Lastly and most importantly, they have Jai Opetaia. Jai is seen as the number one cruiserweight in the world. I want to be known as the number one in the world. To be the best, you’ve got to beat the best. Through my career, I have always sought out and taken the big opportunities. As I said to the girls last Sunday, the pressure is on. Pressure is a privilege. Opportunities are an earned privilege. I will take the opportunities that will come to fruition in the next 18 months.
News about my next fight coming in the next few days. All I will say is, I am very happy with it and I think you will be too.
Big love,
CBS