Nolan Can Bring Good Days Back To Newcastle!

Last updated : 18 February 2009 By Footy Mad - Editor

Gary Speed (talking to the Chronicle): "Kevin is a natural born leader, and if something isn't right he won't hesitate to tell people - that's what Newcastle need at the moment.

"He's got so much to offer and, at 26, I think Newcastle will see his best years.

"I really enjoyed playing alongside Kevin, he's a quality player.

"He can be a big asset to Newcastle - especially in their current situation.

"He was similar to me and the way I play, and we worked together as part of a five-man midfield at Bolton.

"We had the experience of former Real Madrid man Ivan Campo sitting in front of the back four and we were allowed to push on either side of him.

"Kevin's a very good friend of mine and I was delighted to see him get a big move to Newcastle.

"I loved my time at Newcastle and I hope that Kevin can have a similar experience.

"To be honest, I never wanted to leave the club.

"It was the happiest period on the field and off it for my family.

"We didn't win anything, but we helped the club get back into the Champions League and had some high finishes up the table.

"It was a sad day for me when I left.

"But I told Kevin to grab the opportunity with both hands.

"He rang me when he was going up there for talks and I told him to go for it.

"I said that it might be turmoil up there now, but once it takes off it can be unbelievable and that he had to be there to see it.

"Regardless of the team doing well or not, there are gates of 52,000 up there.

"No disrespect to Bolton, but Kevin has a chance at one of the biggest clubs out there now."