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I read this over att NUFC.com and that is exactly what I have been thinking:

It's full steam ahead for a European place at any costs, if United's squad selections for the Leicester and Southampton games are any indication.

That's the only conclusion we can draw from the fact that three of our side (Gallacher, Glass, Cordone) are all just about to leave the club under freedom of contract.

Precisely why the opportunity isn't being taken to employ one of the other fringe players with some future at the club (LuaLua, McClen, Gavilan) or blood a promising youngster (Green) is unclear.

Bobby Robson says like this about O'Brien playing even though he haven't trained since Friday:

"Andy has not trained since Friday and although he's feeling much better we've taken the decision to protect him," explained Toon boss Bobby Robson. "The injury is improving all the time and I would rate him at 80-20 so it's nothing serious.

"Of course we have Aaron Hughes and Steve Caldwell in reserve and I've told Andy that if he is anything less than 100 per cent then he has to say so.

"The problem is that he wants to play and he's enjoying his football but it could count against him. The public won't remember that he was unfit if he doesn't play well and there's no point in him playing if he lets himself down."

"I would like to reward the players for the performance against Leicester on Saturday and I don't envisage making too many changes in the next few weeks," added the Magpies' manager.

"Because of injuries and suspensions I have the opportunity to give players who have been on the fringe of the first team for most of the season the chance to play some more games together.

"If I make too many changes then things could go wrong and we are still chasing a top eight finish. I cannot tinker with the team too much because there is still plenty to play for this season."

I agree with that but why play three players who are probably leaving the club in the summer when you have young talents who could learn a thing or two. To play Glass i agree with, he maybe has a future in the club but Gallacher and Cordone I dont know about. Now Cordone aren't likely to start but give someone else his place on the bench.

Also, I really really hope that they wont play O'Brien if he not really 110% fit. Let Hughes play insteed, we dont need another player breaking down.

-- Anonymous, May 01, 2001

Answers

O'Brien should not play if he is not 100% fit.

On the subject of Gallacher etc. We have to pick the strongest team possible because we can still catch the Mackems and get a European spot, whilst that is a possibility, the management should do everything they can to deliver the goods to the supporters.

If that means picking Glass and Gallacher then fair enough. Chances are a lot of the fringe players will get there chance when Gallacher etc leave and we haven't signed anyone yet!

-- Anonymous, May 01, 2001


I wouldn't play o'Brien if he hasn't trained. Play Hughes instead. I'd also give Gavilan a game on the right wing. Bassedas was useless in that position in the last game. Up front I would start with LuaLua alongside Cort.

-- Anonymous, May 01, 2001

Play a winger instead of a central midfielder out of position? You must be having a laugh Rik, do you ever win anything on CM? ;0)

-- Anonymous, May 01, 2001

You're right DB, what do I know about tactics and playing a balanced side. Playing Glass on the right with Bassedas on the left would be a better solution. Or how about bringing in Caldwell on the right wing?

-- Anonymous, May 01, 2001

I'd go for Luax2 on the right wing. He has pace, dribbling skills and can put in good crosses. He's not afraid of trying compared with other players. by the way, Gavilan isn't even included in the squad, is he?

-- Anonymous, May 01, 2001


And the Management team are disappointed at the lack of progress Gavilan is showing yet hs game is supposed to progress in matches against a team of sailors.

I agree about Lua-Lua and after what Wadsworth said on Saturday he might get the chance.

-- Anonymous, May 01, 2001


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