The Ronnie reveals that Freddie Shepherd has failed in a serious attempt to get Robbie Keane on loan in time to play against the Gooners tomorrow. They add that the Toon also attempted to get Egil Ostenstadt, but were turned down by Blackburn who don't want him going out on loan with the busy Xmas period looming.

They add that BR has admitted that United could go back to Inter Milan and try to get his former protege, Ronaldo, on loan early next year. BR explains that there is point in making a move for him yet as he is still injured.

They go on "Like most players who have worked for Robson, Ronaldo - who hopes to get back into action in late February - has tremendous respect for the man who moulded his career at both PSV Eindhoven and Barcelona". They quote Bobby as saying "I know for a fact that he would love to come here and play for me to try and get match-fit."

Well, we can always dream.

-- Anonymous, December 08, 2000

Answers

Unless we get him fully fit what's the point in recruiting another crock, no matter how outstandingly brilliant he is?

Surely it would only be a PR exercise and Addidas would be peeved if Nike boy came to Toon.

-- Anonymous, December 08, 2000

"We've searched high and low," he (YBR) admitted. "Some of the players that I like and know, we've tried for, but clubs are just saying it's impossible. Some clubs won't even sell.

Wonder who he tried to sign? YBR must have made some bids to buy players as well, so he has some emergency cash does he?

-- Anonymous, December 08, 2000

I guess the idea is that he'd be physically fit, but not match fit.

I'd take a chance on this particular guy - you never know he might decide he likes it here so much that he doesn't want to leave. Wouldn't that be canny?

-- Anonymous, December 08, 2000

I would have thought the worst league to come to, to ease yourself back into the fray would have been the premiership. If Inter have any intelligence they'll look at our record of injuries and stay well clear. Hardly attractive medically is it?

I suppose we can live in dream land! Imagine his wages though and we'd have to change our Kit supplier to Nike.

-- Anonymous, December 08, 2000

And I know for a fact that we've more chance of seeing Jackie Milburn take the pitch again. Nice thought, but nae f**kin' chance.

-- Anonymous, December 08, 2000