The transfer window is nonsensical

It's hot. Really hot. Apparently this is summer. By the time these words hit the newsagents or the internet server it might be over, but the pre-season fixtures are upon us and the 2016-17 campaign is just over two weeks away. The hopes and fears are starting to formulate but it is a difficult time for many.
Johnny CantorJohnny Cantor
Johnny Cantor

The hard yards are being done on the training ground, combinations are being tried and the money men are looking to seal the deals for their targets.

In years gone by, there would still be plenty of time before the points are up for grabs but nowadays it comes around quickly. The strange anomaly though remains that the transfer window stays open throughout August once the games have begun.

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For me, the system is nonsensical. The turmoil for players and clubs seems illogical. For me, you do your business and get ready for the season.

The reports and rumours surrounding players can be very unsettling. I don’t mind it now when it’s fair game, but if the window moves into August, in between games, I believe it doesn’t do anyone any favours.

One of Albion’s star players, Dale Stephens, is currently the subject of reports and rumours about interest from Burnley. Inevitably after the season the Seagulls had last year there will be approaches, but once the action begins the wheeling and dealing must end. The motivation of the players will rightly or wrongly be questioned, the fear of injury will remain and so it goes on.

As long as everyone is, excuse the pun, on a level playing field, there can’t be any complaints. Retaining the services of key players will no doubt be of more concern to the Albion than maybe others but I feel there needs to be a change.

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While we’re at it, let’s have a winter break after Christmas. Ten days and go again. And while we’re at it, let’s use technology to solve contentious decisions. Retrospective analysis on more incidents and go again. And while we’re at it, can we end FA Cup replays to fit the bill for the future? Extra-time, penalties and go again. Don’t worry, I won’t continue with more but any sport must embrace change.

I will admit I have often resisted and struggled severely when the BBC introduced the 3D weather but now it’s second nature. Where do we stop? I don’t know but let’s start with allowing shorts and flip flops at work. After all, summer only lasts a few days, despite the fact that the summer transfer window goes on, and on.

Johnny Cantor covers Brighton & Hove Albion as a commentator and reporter for BBC Sussex Sport.

Follow all the action, home or away, on BBC Sussex Sport or Twitter: @BBCSussexSport or @johnnycburger

To read more by Johnny Cantor, visit www.johnnycantor.com

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