It's something I struggle to come to terms with. In my world EVERYONE should want to play for Newcastle United. No ifs or buts. But in the real world there are those who have bigger piorities.
OK, if Manchester United, Liverpool or Arsenal came calling I'm sure there would be a big temptation. But in the case of Matthew Upson, who has allegedly turned down Newcastle's offer TWICE, I cannot help but laugh at his current plight at Upton Park.
Two Players We Don't Need!
He moved to East London from Birmingham in the January transfer window, and the way it looks, West Ham and Brum could be waving to each other as the swap leagues in May.
This week Upson has demanded West Ham's under-performing stars put the club first and start regaining some lost pride in Sunday's vital clash with Tottenham. The Hammers are nine points from Premiership safety and their last 10 games of the season start with Spurs and include Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United.
The situation was difficult when Upson arrived from Birmingham for £7million during the transfer window, but it is now dire! And there is a serious threat of the club having points deducted for fielding two players not under contract.
The 4-0 defeat to Charlton was followed by a heated discussion in the West Ham changing room during which Alan Curbishley reportedly told Anton Ferdinand he has no future at the club. And the worrying thing is ... Ferdinand could be heading to Newcastle! Do we need a player who "bottles" the big games.
Ferdinand is a London lad. You don't need me to tell you he would be like a fish out of water on Tyneside. This is a transfer that should never happen.
Another big worry, Upson has a clause in his contract saying he can leave the club if they get relegated, and that too could interest Glenn Roeder.
Please God ... NO NO NO!
Ferdinand is a London lad. You don't need me to tell you he would be like a fish out of water on Tyneside. This is a transfer that should never happen.
Another big worry, Upson has a clause in his contract saying he can leave the club if they get relegated, and that too could interest Glenn Roeder.
Please God ... NO NO NO!