Toon Feel Benefit From Last Season's Injury Crisis

Last updated : 14 June 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Now Sam Allardyce says Steven Taylor and James Milner are realising their potential and he is confident the pair will have a vital role to play in his new-look side.

Allardyce: "I know plenty about Steven Taylor and James Milner and I'm looking forward to working with them at Newcastle United.

"It's important at a football club that you have good young players coming through and they certainly fall into that bracket.

"They already have a lot of first-team experience because of the injury problems at Newcastle last season and that will undoubtedly help their development.

"In terms of being young and English, they are the backbone of the team and hopefully I can help their development and they can have long and successful careers at Newcastle United.

"I would have watched them play for the Under-21s earlier this week, but my flight was delayed and I missed the game. I'll be taking a keen interest in the tournament and I'll be watching the two Newcastle boys closely.

"Playing in tournaments like this one helps young players and I'm sure they are enjoying it. Of course, from a Newcastle manager's point of view, I just hope they don't get injured because that is always a concern when a player goes away on international duty.

"From what I've heard, England were a little unlucky in their first game against the Czech Republic, but hopefully they will still qualify from their group."