The shadows are getting longer, autumn hangs in the air and you know that before long every weekend for at least a couple of hours you’ll become a football widow again. You know that your normally kind, mild-mannered other half will once again undergo a weekly Jekyll and Hyde style transformation into a football supporting monster. 

If, like me, you dread the end of summer when the league games, cup fixtures and if you’re really lucky, Champions’ League matches all start up again, here are a few tips on how to get through those football blues. Or reds. 

Get hold of a copy of the fixtures list so you’ll know well in advance when the matches are, especially those all important local derbies. This way you can avoid disappointments when arranging social events together. By showing an interest in his favourite hobby you’ll also win brownie points as he’ll think you’re genuinely interested and taking his football seriously.