Will you sign my official Greg jersey?

Hi Greg,

Neil from Brooklyn here.

I read the entire blog this evening. I've never been compelled to read an entire blog before, so this is actually saying something. Let me tell you, that sucker is long, and there's no pictures, either. It's just an endless string of messages from everyone you've ever met, saying that they - and everyone they know - are pulling for you. And it's one of the most miraculous things I've ever seen.

I did notice a severe dearth of sports metaphors, however, so you must be craving one by now. Here goes:

Three years ago, Liverpool FC were in a massive final with AC Milan. (Now I know you're a Newcastle boy, so forgive me – remember: it's a metaphor!). Anyway, Milan was heavily favored to win, and in the first half they ran riot and scored three goals. No one had ever come back from three goals down in a European final. But Liverpool did. They tied the game in regulation, fought a goalless extra time, and won on penalties.

You are Liverpool. You're down 3-0. But it's only half time. The game's not over yet. You have the equivalent of a 60,000-strong army of fans who have complete and total faith in your ability, desire, and determination to win. We've all got our official Greg jerseys on. Some of us have Greg scarves. Four guys have your name painted on their chests. We're all hoarse from chanting songs about you, but we're not going to stop until you beat this thing.

Neil Harris
Friend of Phil and Carrie