Caldwell set for final effort

Last updated : 04 May 2003 By Martyn Elliott

With his brother looking set to reject the offer of a new deal Gary Caldwell hopes to take his place in the squad and go on to establish himself as Jonathan Woodgate’s regular partner.

But with just 12 months left on his contract he realises that next season represents his final chance to breakthrough at Newcastle and win a place in the Scotland team.

"I'm looking forward to a return to Newcastle and I'm going back to win a place in the first team," he told the Sunday Mail.

"I haven't had a fair crack of the whip. There's one year left on my contract and I want to play for the Toon, simple as that. If I don't get that chance I will hold my hands up and move elsewhere.

"This is my last go at Newcastle and if I want to play under Berti Vogts in the full team I must be a regular at domestic level.

"I feel I've always done well for Scotland and still view my debut as a positive experience.

"It's disappointing not to be included for the full squad considering I've been a regular at Coventry.

"But the only way to get Berti to pick me is by playing in the Premiership every week for Newcastle."