Herr Mike in Deutschland

We said farewell to Matt this week as he heads off to finish the remainder of his placement year in France.

We went for a chinese meal before watching the footy and going for a bowl which was a fitting send off. Ashley and Marie collected pictures of all the things we have done while Matt was here and put them into a big scrap book which we all signed.

I have made loads of really cool mates out here but nobody who is as like me as Mr Otto is. With the exception of my best mates at home there are very few people with whom I can discuss 1990s football, drink copious amounts of tea and dissect football manager simulation game strategies but Matt is an expert in all fields. I will miss our trips to watch FCN together, 'pumping the guns' in the gym and taking the boredom out of washing by watching the Match of the Day DVDs which Mum sends over while our clothes were spinning.

I wish Matt good luck and much fun in France, I hope I can make it over for a visit. Even if not I am sure we will meet up back in England and go and watch some Premiership action.

Bon Voyage Matty boy!