August 2012 Archives

Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is bang on the money when it comes to his approach with exciting teenage striker Adam Campbell.

Pardew is making sure his feet stay firmly on the ground and giving him tastes of first team life gradually.

At just 17 it is obvious that Campbell is already a down to earth lad who could have a great career in front of him.

The stage was set, the interpreter was whisked in and a clutch of Greek journalists gathered to hang on every word from Alan Pardew.

It was at that moment that the reality of being back in Europe for the Magpies was officially confirmed in my mind.

Late night press conferences, training in the opposition's stadium and the immense feeling that something special could be about to happen.

Following Newcastle is all about moments but does it really seem three years ago that I was stood in the Villa Park press room trying to take in the enormity of relegation?

Have just three seasons unfolded since the southern media were sharpening their pencils and national TV crews were zooming in on that fans sat outside Shearer's with the tears running down his face?

Talking about expectations and Newcastle United can be a touchy subject.

For a start there is a common misconception around the country that the Toon Army are an impatient breed of fans who expect to be challenging at the business end of the table every season - or at least according to our friends in the south.

In reality, Newcastle fans are the perfect example of patient fans - after all there has been no sniff of a major trophy since 1969.

The expectations - as I see it - are to see a team that is trying their hardest to match the amazing support of the fans at St James' Park and sweating blood for the black and white cause.

NEWCASTLE UNITED ran riot at Victoria Park to leave Hartlepool United stunned.

The League One side found themselves 3-0 down by the 12 minute mark and better finishing from the Magpies could have easily resulted in them hitting double figures.

But Newcastle settled for five on a positive night for Alan Pardew's troops.

NEWCASTLE UNITED were held to a 0-0 stalemate in Holland against a determined De Haag side today.

On a frustrating day Shola Ameobi had a perfectly good goal disallowed while Cheick Tiote, Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse were subjected to racist abuse from Den Haag fans.

Newcastle officials were tonight assessing the situation and will decide whether to make a formal complaint to the home club.