I waited at the airport

I waited at the airport

 

I waited at the airport, the lights were bright

and the sleet was wet but my spirits were high;

As high as the airplane heading my way.

 

This was it at last, our record signing was to make

Cardiff his home. He’d learn to love the Welsh way

of living with his heart on his sleeve and we’d learn

to say his name properly.

 

Emiliano was to be our saviour. From the outset

Cardiff had been written off as the worst team in premier

league history and whilst the Bluebirds had earned points,

no one thought it would last.

 

December came and the transfer window beckoned, rumours

of French fancies came our way but nothing certain. One

minute it was on, the next it was off.  Bluebirds learning

to take each bit of speculation with more than a pinch of salt.

 

Then one night it all came true.  A dismal showing in

Newcastle city centre only offset by the announcement that

Emiliano, was after all, a Bluebird.

 

The message boards lit up, “there’s a new Sala in town”

he proclaimed.  Suddenly amongst the January blues a

glint of hope and a French breeze brought hope anew.

Argentina’s first ever Cardiff player and the Bluebirds

expected goals at last.

 

Just one final goodbye was all that stood between Emi and

his Premier League dream.  Kennels sorted, instagram photos

posted and final visits to the town café done as Sala climbed aboard his

final vessel.

 

I spend nine to five daily grinds at Cardiff airport and I’m still waiting,

still waiting for Emi to arrive.  To see him walk through arrivals

with that big smile,to have him sign my top and post that selfie

exclusive on twitter.

 

He’s never arrived, a watery grave became his final resting place

but I can’t stop waiting at the airport.  Goodnight Emi, I hope

that the boys do you proud on the pitch and your family know

that we will never forget you.

 

Sleep well brother, once a Bluebird, always a Bluebird.

 

Paul Gronow 15.02.19