Perch Passed Test With 'Flying Colours'?

Last updated : 20 August 2010 By Footy Mad - Editor

Perch didn't once close down the Man Utd widemen, nor did he stop one cross from flying into the Toon penalty area.

He looked exposed everytime a Manc attacked the right flank, and he looked as though he was about to fill his nappy whenever the Reds entered Newcastl'e half.

But ... Chris Hughton reckons Mike Williamson and James Perch passed their first Premier League test.

Hughton: “I was pleased with both of them – particularly Mike. They were up against pretty much the best around and they did well.

“It was a tough one for both of them at Manchester United when they were up against Wayne Rooney, Nani and Dimitar Berbatov but I thought they equipped themselves as well as they could on a tough night.

“Mike made the one mistake which he got away with but other than that I thought he was very comfortable against some great players. The likes of Rooney, Berbatov – their movement is superb and it's a tough night for any defender, especially one making his debut in the Premier League.

“I have no worries about Mike. He is a good player, a good trainer and he only wants to get better. He is the sort of player who takes things in and he will have learned from Monday. I think that both of them will only get better for the experience."