New "Supermac" Can Lift Geordies

Last updated : 11 December 2006 By Footy Mad - Editor

Just like Malcolm Macdonald back in 1970s, the Nigeria international has Olympic quality in speed trials, and above all, pace is one thing defenders hate to face.

Roeder: "Before I signed him I'd obviously seen as much of him as I could, and from day one in training he's been scoring spectacular goals. The lads took to him straight away, and that's because he is a very good man to work with.

"Since he returned from injury against Arsenal, when he frightened (Kolo) Toure and (William) Gallas - the best defensive partnership in this league - with his pace, he has become better and better.

"He is like lightning, and in those first 10 to 12 yards, he will leave most defenders behind. When we get a break from playing two games a week - although that is not going to be for a while - it will good to get him on the training ground and help him get the best out of that pace.

"He's also not been able to strike up a partnership with anybody because of injuries, so when that happens, and he gets used to the environment and high tempo of the Premiership, watch out.

"I've warned people who have not been too complimentary about him to be careful because when he comes good he will score goals. I feel come the end of the season we will have seen plenty more goals from him."