Old Trafford More Important Than Hat-trick

Last updated : 29 September 2006 By Footy Mad - Editor

... the Newcastle manager knows he needs a fully fit strike force to tackle the mighty Manchester United on Sunday, and why risk injury when he already has Shola Ameobi struggling?

Martins: "I am very happy. I have been waiting for it since I came to Newcastle, to score in a home game.I did not have any pressure, I was just trying to help the team. All the fans were waiting for was for me to score goals, so I am very glad that I have scored today.

"The manager said if you score, they will love you and love you, so I am very happy that I have scored."

Roeder: "I am really pleased for Oba that he has got off the mark at home, especially down at the Gallowgate End. I have been saying for a few weeks now he scores goals like that every day in training and he has proved me right tonight.

"The header was tremendous. I have just seen how high he actually jumps - he gets amazing height for someone who is so small, and he is going to be a real danger in the air.

"The second finish was special. Everyone enjoyed that one. He is a different number nine to several other number nines we have had in the past. There are never two players the same. But as long as he scores the goals, that is the most important thing".