Sad to say I'm feeling pretty much the same as you.
We say that we accept we have to sell him, but do we really really need to? To me all we ever seem to do is take one step forward and the two steps back.
Unfortunately we DO have to sell him at some point. Financially we need the money. But just as importantly Charlie will want to step it up a level eventually. When that happens its over! I'd prefer him to stay and learn a bit more, but how does he know how often the chance to move up a league will come? Who knows what is round the corner.
We all know and accept that this is the price of failure at Wembley. What was a bit of a shock to the system was our failure to kick on another level despite the inevitability of losing key players.
I felt pretty low about football the first few months of non performances this season. I think I'm through it now. Hope you do the same.
When we do sell Charlie it is vital proper money is made available and used wisely to find a replacement. I don't think I could stomach a "what we have is good enough" speech. But I don't think we'd get one either.
Also, when Charlie does go, does anyone have any advice on how to break it gently to a 7 year old that his absolute idol has gone to play for another team? He's going to be completely devastated, but I suppose if he's going to follow Swindon Town he needs to get used to the heartache from a young age?
I've started preparing my 6 year old. Started with when Greer left. He wasn't so bothered other than Douglas being captain (not sure why he is not a Dougie fan). Anyway he' getting there with the whole idea.