Great Expectations? Roeder Backs His Judgement

Last updated : 01 February 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

The American will make his debut in the Premiership against Fulham on Saturday, and the player admits the English league is "the best in the world".

Glenn Roeder: "Ironically, it will be against one of the teams (Fulham) who wanted to sign him, along with a number of teams in Europe.

"I know a few teams wanted him last year and obviously West Brom. I know Nigel Pearson looked at him a few times when he was at The Hawthorns. He is what we wanted - he is still a young talent and at the right age for us.

"Gooch has the perfect physique for a centre-back. He is quick and exactly what we need. We needed somebody dominant in the air and somebody who can defend crosses and he can help us do that.

"When he's on the ball he keeps it nice and simple. I think he can really do a job for us.

"He's the sort of player you want to bring in on loan. You see some loan deals and they don't work out but I know that we have a highly motivated player on our hands now.

"He is enthusiastic and wants a future here. I feel he has the ability and these sort of players are hard to come across."

NEWCASTLE UNITED FIXTURES

Saturday 03rd February 2007 - Fulham v Newcastle 15.00

Saturday 10th February 2007 - Newcastle v Liverpool 15.00

Wednesday 14th February 2007 (UEFA Cup Third Round First Leg) - Zulte-Waregem v Newcastle 19.45

Thursday 22nd February 2007 (UEFA Cup Third Round Second Leg) - Newcastle v Zulte-Waregem 19.45