does this sound like Martin?

HIDALGO CONFIDENT ABOUT MAGPIES TRIAL by Nic Evans

MARTIN HIDALGO has revealed his excitement at joining Newcastle United on trial, whilst his agent, Carlos Delgado has travelled with his client to England.

Hidalgo's representative in Peru, Augusto Olivares had played down the link, pointing out his client neither had an EU passport nor enough appearances for a work permit, but this could be a case of sour grapes.

Delgado, a Fifa-registered agent has accompanied Hidalgo in his trip to the North East and it was the right-sided player's Peruvian team-mate, Nolberto Solano who has played some part in the deal.

Having travelled on Monday to England, Hidalgo said: "Almost everything is already sorted and I go on approval for one week to Newcastle.

"When we were with the (Peruvian) team, Nolberto Solano told me of the interest of his club and for that reason I go with much optimism."

Confusion surrounds Hidalgo's contractual status as at the end of the Peruvian Opening Tournament, the player believes he would be available on a free.

"After it (the tournament) finishes, the contract belongs to me, but there would have to be a percentage paid to Cristal since I still have a contract that unites me to the club," said Hidalgo.

"For me it is going to be a challenge to return to play in Europe and Nolberto's team," added Hidalgo.

The Peruvian winger played in Spain with Las Palmas for two seasons and concluded: "For that reason I am optimistic and with desire I return."

Hidalgo finished off by stating he would return to Lima with Solano to take his place in the Peruvian side in the next round of the World Cup qualifiers.

-- Anonymous, May 15, 2001

Answers

Another cheap South American who may miss 25% of our games next year.

-- Anonymous, May 15, 2001

Sounds like Nobby is looking to hire a personal taxi driver. ;-))

-- Anonymous, May 15, 2001

Just looking to set up a rival nose-flute band to the lads that play at the Monument :-)

-- Anonymous, May 15, 2001

one of which drives a gleaming red Ferrari Testarossa

-- Anonymous, May 15, 2001