Are You Watching Dyer? Smith Will Play 'Anywhere'!

Last Updated : 04-Aug-2007 by
I wouldn't mind ... but was Dyer ever THAT good?

For five years, while he has had a season ticket for the treatment room, the majority of Newcastle fans have been saying "get him fit - then SELL him!"

That day seems to have come (THANK GOD!), and now we have the PERFECT replacement. A player with passion; commitment; a "do-or-die attitude"; and willing to play as goalkeeper if asked.

Newcastle new-boy Alan Smith has vowed to do whatever it takes to help turn around the fortunes of his new club and lead the Magpies back into major European competition. And the former Leeds player is unconcerned about the role he has to play to get them there.

Smith: "I don't think any player can turn round and say 'I am only going to play in one position' because that would be silly.

"He will probably want me to play all over. Otherwise it limits the amount of times he can use you.

"So I am ready to fit in and I just can't wait to get out there and play.

"We want success but everybody knows it is not going to come overnight.

"Hopefully the transitional period will not take too long. The fans want success and everybody knows how passionate they are."

Allardyce: "I think he will be a major signing for Newcastle and with his recent career-threatening injury, I think it was a life-changing experience and will make him more determined than ever.

"He is a lot more mature and he has been with the best manager in club football today seeing how you win a Championship. Not only do I expect his performances to rub off on the players but also his experiences."