| Marlon Harewood's loan is due to expire at the end of the year, when the transfer window opens for permanent transfers. And it is thought Newcastle will let him go.
|
But the Newcastle boss is hoping to lift Harewood's spirits before that happens, knowing he still has him for a couple of months.
Harweood has been "shown great aptitude in training", according to Chris Hughton.
But his "aptitude" on the pitch has been well short of the mark, showing nothing of the form he once showed at West Ham.
He has that lazy, cannot be bothered look that has made him the target of the Boo-Boys, and I have no sympathy with him.
Martin O'Neill sussed him out ... which is why he is at SJP ... and if this was seen as a 'new dawn' for the striker. But he is hardly grabbing the bull by the horns.
Chris Hughton: “We knew he had missed a fair chunk of pre-season, that he had to get fitter when he was here.
“He has shown great aptitude in training, and fitted in with the lads well. As with all strikers, he just needs that goal and display which will lift his confidence. We are sticking with him.”
Harewood could well get that opportunity against Peterborough if, as expected, Hughton goes for his prefered "long ball game".
The Toon boss likes to keep it simple - hoofing it in there to two big strikers. But that is what the Championship is all about, unfortunately.
That was how Hughton (and Joe Kinnear) got us relegated in the first place.
A tactic that didn't suit Michael Owen, Charley N'Zogbia, Damien Duff, and Oba Martins ... which was one (of many reasons) why they buggered off!
Hughton brough Harewood to SJP, and he has to prove his signings, even though they are only loan signings and we have nothing to lose.
But what about the transfer market FOR REAL?
Unless Harewood turns it around, and he will have his chance, Ashley won't be spurred to handing Hughton a blank cheque in January. |
>> Terms & Conditions