Big Sam - Some Good After All?

Last updated : 17 July 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

The ex-Newcastle, Sunderland and Hartlepool United left-back was yesterday unveiled as the Magpies' new strength and conditioning coach, a path Allardyce set him on.

Elliott: "It couldn't have worked out any better for me. It's a role I've been looking to do ever since I was a Bolton player when I started doing my qualifications. It's only ever been the fitness side I've been interested in.

"It's something I was really interested in as a player and unfortunately through the injuries I suffered I spent quite a lot of time learning as I went. I realised when I broke my leg at Bolton I needed to have something else lined up after football.

"Sam Allardyce was a big influence - he was the manager at Bolton when I began studying and it was him who invited me to Newcastle to learn my trade when I came back to the North East. When Kevin (Keegan) came, he allowed me to continue in doing that.

"They always say you know when the right time is to retire and I knew it was right. I had a better career than I could have ever hoped for. I had no intention of playing next season and it was far too good an opportunity for me to turn down."