In perhaps the most toe-curlingly frustrating bit of transfer activity since time began, Keith Scott arrived on loan from Norwich City, impressed virtually everyone and then returned whence he came. It's not that we don't want him (Kenny Jackett attempted to extend his loan period), it's not that we don't need him (we've been scouring the divisions for a cheap, quality centre forward for the best part of three seasons), it's simply that we don't have the money to buy him. Bearing in mind that, little more than a season ago, Glenn Roeder was talking in terms of breaking the club's transfer record in a bid to bring a striker in, that's almost too much to take.

Although his performances fluctuated depending on the quality of service and he could look a bit lightweight at times, it was abundantly obvious that here was a player who added something to the side. Especially impressive when the ball was played into his feet or chest (his twenty minute appearance against Bristol City was magnificent), he forged a highly promising partnership with Kevin Phillips and brought a new element of control to our frontline. The strike rate perhaps left a little to be desired (both goals were wayward crosses rather than shots) but that was less important than his contribution to the side. And we could've had him for £150,000.

Bye then, Keith. It would've been nice...