Well, as Andy Pandy used to say, 'It's time to go home'. Our four days in Ireland have come to a rapid conclusion but there is still plenty to do before the big kick-off in August with trips to Belgium and Scotland as well as outings to Championship and League One clubs.

I did a bit of Guinness testing on Friday evening with the rest of the press lads that have come over here. There was such a wonderful atmosphere in one pub we popped into, with some local musicians playing jigs and reels, it was very difficult to tear yourself away. So I didn't. And for those of you who enjoy a little tipple, if you haven't tried a pint of Guinness in Ireland put it down as one of the things you must do before you die.

My colleagues then dragged me off to a nightclub which, to be honest, isn't something this 39-year-old really enjoyed. Call me old fashioned but all this hip hop rip rap just ain't for me. I like some good meaningful lyrics and a melodic tune - you can't beat a bit of Slade!

Some of the lads have been renamed since we arrived. At the training ground one supporter cheerfully went up to Stephen Hunt and said "Hi Kevin. It's great to see you." Our new signing looked a little perplexed but politely said hello back.

Then, in the game against Bohemians, on the teamsheet we had a Keith Foley and the announcer introduced Stears as Richard Stirman. All very confusing.

Finally, I have to confess that my diet is causing concern with certain parties. For some reason our fitness coach Tony Daley says he is washing his hands of me. It's not enough that I have a bowl of fruit salad with five different fruits in. He says that it only counts for one of the day and not five.

Then he shakes his head and walks off if I tell him I've had a kebab for my supper. Honestly - some people.

And now Sylvan's started on me. After some cutting remarks about my weight on the shirt that the lads signed for my birthday, he noted that my meal the other night was just meat - no veg.

I have to admit that I am not a great veggie lover but after questioning me as to where the veg was, he told me to put some on my plate as 'veg never hurt anybody'. Crestfallen I waited until he had gone and grabbed a piece of bread to mop up the gravy.