Roeder Has A Lot Still To Prove

Last updated : 19 October 2006 By Footy Mad - Editor


.... Fenerbahce stand to be a tough task as he trys to prove to the St James' Park Toon Army he is the right man to lead them to glory.

Every season since Kevin Keegan left has been "transitional", and it is about time someone gave the city the hope we had when we up there with the best during KK's reign. Sunday's 2-1 Premiership defeat by Bolton, in which the Magpies again threw away a lead at St James' Park, left the fans asking questions.

However, Roeder is ready to put things right.

Roeder: "A victory must come first, it has to come first. I would not be happy with 0-0. Victory must come first followed by a clean sheet. I would be extremely happy.

"That would be very important to the players, to the defenders - and not just the defenders, the team as a whole because defending should start from the front, back through midfield and the ultimately the back four and the goalkeeper.

"But a win must be the first thought, but secondly, it would be very nice to win with a clean sheet.

"It does not just increase my determination, it increases everyone's determination to win the next game. It is so important at the group stage that you win your two home games, that is the minimum requirement.

"We are happy to be at home, we are looking forward to entertaining Fenerbahce, but we are focusing on our own performance and getting a win."