Interesting article on Tribalfootball:

Newcastle United boss Bobby Robson says his flamboyant French winger Laurent Robert is one of the biggest challenges of his career.

He told The Evening Chronicle, "He is as big a challenge to me as Romario was when I was at Barcelona. Romario presented me with some problems but together we overcame them and this is what I am hoping to do with Robert."

Robert inspired Newcastle's comeback against Derby on Saturday and his manager added, "I have spoken privately to Laurent more than any other Newcastle player this season. He is a very talented but also a frustrating sort of player."

It's well worth the effort Bobby.

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

Answers

The man is undoubtly talented, next season he'll get better.

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

"I have spoken privately to Laurent more than any other Newcastle player this season."

With the command of the English language that both parties posess, is it any wonder there's been nee bliddy progress?

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

probably keeps calling him Lawrence, so he ignores Berb, who then gets the sh*ts.....

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

As much as anything I think he needs to feel LOVED.

Obviously not in a sexual manner but I don't think he'll be truly happy here until he actually feels part of a team. NUFC.com reckon only Distin congratulated him after scoring on Saturday. I know it wasn't the winner or anything, but is there really a divide between him and the rest?

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

Obviously not in a sexual manner

Well he was carrying a bag full of condoms on his way to Paris a few weeks back....

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

Everyone here in Barcelona says that getting the most from the players was Bobby's strong point. Also, perfect gent etc. etc.

Their main complaint was his extremely defence-orientated style of organising the team.

!!!!

Looks like old dogs CAN learn new tricks :)

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002