March 2009 Archives
DO you know the most worrying thing about the Chelsea game this weekend? It isn't whether Taylor and Bassong will be fit, or even if we have the guile to breach their defence and then keep them out if we do.
No, the most worrying thing is that I thought, incorrectly as it turned out, work commitments would keep me away, and I couldn't even give my ticket away!
A home game at three o'clock on a Saturday, no television coverage - and my seat would be empty.
NEWCASTLE United's injured trio are making good progress ahead of the visit of Chelsea to St James's Park - but Chris Hughton expects their fitness battle to go down to the wire.
United's caretaker boss is refusing to rule out the possibility of Sébastien Bassong, Steven Taylor and Damien Duff all playing against the title-chasing Blues - and will hand all three fitness tests on Friday before deciding whether they will be able to play a part in the crucial game.
DANNY GUTHRIE today revealed he is straining at the leash to get involved in Newcastle United's battle for survival in the Premier League.
The former Bolton battler turned in an impressive performance for the second string against Manchester United last night and netted a scorcher in a 3-3 draw.
JOE KINNEAR has hinted he could move upstairs if doctors advise him against making a full-time return to the dug-out.
The Chronicle understands Mike Ashley wants Kinnear to remain at St James's Park in some capacity - even if his current role is ruled out by medics and a reshuffle of the management structure remains a possibility.
IT speaks volumes for the progress he has made that less than 12 months after arriving at Newcastle United in the hope of winning a professional contract, that the Magpies are sweating on the fitness of Sebastien Bassong ahead of a potentially crucial period in the club's history.
The French under-21 international arrived last summer on trial and has gone on to quickly establish himself as one of the finest central defenders outside of the Premier League's big four.
CHRIS HUGHTON has urged the frustrated Toon Army not to give up on Newcastle United's relegation fight.
United are in deep trouble but have eight games remaining to spare themselves relegation to the Championship - including four potentially pivotal home matches.
HIS chairman at Wigan Dave Whelan may like to think he is not interested in the Newcastle United job, but Steve Bruce would love the chance to manage the club he once supported.
Whelan launched an extraordinary attack on Newcastle owner Mike Ashley this week as their relationship, already soured by years of bitter competition in business, took another nosedive.
AS WE peer into the abyss of the Championship and shudder at the thought of relinquishing Premier League membership for the very first time, one question is on every Geordie's lips.
Where are the inspirational men of power to lead Newcastle United away from the wilderness?
The club is in a mess from tip to toe. Every turn brings another brick wall. Hope and faith have been abandoned in front of disbelieving eyes.
DANNY GUTHRIE says Newcastle United's players are taking full responsibility for their perilous league position - regardless of the off-the-field distractions that have scarred their season.
United have endured a miserable campaign on and off the field, being led by three different managers and put up for sale by Mike Ashley while the ailing players struggle to keep the club in the Premier League.
I decided to let the dust settle on Newcastle's defeat to Arsenal and subsequent slide into bottom three because I didn't want to get all emotional and drop tears on to my keyboard, but it doesn't look any better now than it did on Sunday morning does it?
The fear of relegation has haunted United ever since Kevin Keegan stomped off into the distance mumbling about his lack of control of transfers, but perhaps only now do we fully appreciate the danger the club is in.
Recent Comments
"Barton is England class?? jesus ive heard it all now im suprised your not shouting for shola to lead..."
"Couldn't agree less. Never better than average for the Toon. Always making us a laughing stock. Shou..."
"now the fun starts cant see the mackems getting another point so if we can get 4 points from the 2 h..."
"Beating newcastle today was like being asked to turn your mate's life support off. Easy to do. Not n..."
"Barton May be a thug off the pitch but lets not forget that at his best he IS England class. Hand on..."
"I think you're right Philip it was embarrassing and insulting, we were all cringing in our little se..."
"Its a shame the players dont show the same passion as the fans...will be sorry to see the toon go do..."
"I think any one would be "excited" at managing Newcastle. Ian Dowie does not exactly have a sparklin..."
"That's weird that all the Stoke fans had nothing better to do than find a Newcastle site and try to ..."
"I dont bother reading the hate-filled bile that comes from the south anymore. Most of the journos d..."