Toon Defenders On 'Last Legs'?

Last updated : 01 May 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

Ramage is back playing after his horror injury earlier in the season, but time is ticking out as his contract comes to an end in the summer.

He has one last throw of the dice, but with Keegan talking about signing defenders from the likes of Real Madrid and Valencia ... Ramage has already taken a reality check.

Lamine Diatta played out the games against Reading and West Ham as a late substitute and he too wants more of the action.

The 32-year-old was drafted in as cover after being released by Turkish side Besiktas, but is determined to persuade Keegan he could have a longer future on Tyneside.

Diatta: "It was my first game and I was very happy to play. It was a very special atmosphere.

"It was my first game in the Premier League and it is a difficult league, but I believe I can help the team.

"Habib Beye, my Senegal team-mate, has been a great help, as has Abdoulaye Faye. They have told me what a great club this is, and I want to stay here with them."

* We changed this article because we had Peter Ramage down as "Paul". Obviously the result of a heavy night on the beer. Sorry!