In football and also in politics, we must balance high hopes with realism. Absurdly high expectations for the new prime minister will only lead to anger and resentment, writes Colin Montgomery – we need a new political ballgame.
The danger of unrealistic expectations
It's not the hope that kills you, in either football or politics; it's unrealistic expectations (It's the hope that kills you – so fingers crossed for Andy Burnham, 14 July). Writing as a Scot, Colin Montgomery knows that all too well when it comes to football. Despite Scotland never making it past a World Cup group stage, expectations were high this time, born of the giddy qualification drama of their spectacular Hampden win against Denmark. Then reality hit hard.
England's perennial problem
For England, the problem has always been the expectation that they will win the whole thing, as though it's their birthright as the 'home' of the game. Again, it only leads to crushing disappointment. Although this year may prove to be a release from that curse; we shall see.
Political parallels
In politics, though, the same mindset is more injurious than an early flight home. People's expectations are absurd. Like those on the left who are already compiling shopping lists for Andy Burnham, and will no doubt end up furious if every item on the agenda isn't ticked off in record time.
The result of high hopes
The result? Resentment, anger, and the kind of baked-in intransigence – devoid of any realism, compromise and understanding – that is only driving people further apart to extreme positions. Montgomery fears we need more than crossed fingers; we need a whole new political ballgame. And fast.
Colin Montgomery, Edinburgh
