Gooch Deal Still Not "Cut And Dried"

Last updated : 13 February 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Some saw it as a massive step towards earning a permanent move to St James' Park but the Newcastle manager is not making any promises. And that has to be good management skills.

Roeder talks constantly about character building, and after shaky start trying to keep an eye on Craig Bellamy, the loan signing ended the game on top.

Roeder: "It was a big game for him, his home debut against Liverpool in front of 52,000 people, but from what I know of him already - I don't know if it's the American bit in him - he is a tough guy.

"He is very, very mentally strong, does not appear to have too many nerves and the longer the game went, the better he got.

"Come the end of the season he might have earned the contract he is desperate to earn to stay here over the next few years. I am delighted for him. He is a really good guy."