Laurent Robert says Newcastle were a club nobody knew about ... until he joined!
Portsmouth loanee Laurent Robert accepts his days with Newcastle are over but still believes Marseille may be interested in signing him in the January transfer window. The outspoken winger, currently on loan at Fratton Park from Newcastle in a deal which could turn into a permanent arrangement at the end of the season, has finally started to win over the Pompey fans.
Robert: "Before leaving Newcastle, I had a lot of propositions and some beautiful ones like Bolton and Manchester City or great Scottish clubs. I had choice and I think I still have it. I didn't come to Portsmouth to stay on the bench, but I am going to work to get back my first-team place.
"Between me and OM (Marseille), it is always the same trite news story, which often reappears during transfer window periods. But a player in my situation could indeed attract Marseille from January.
"Newcastle is a club that will remain great to me, but the contrary is true for them. I think I have marked Newcastle's history and I remain in several fans' hearts. Before I came we didn't hear a lot about Newcastle. I don't say I was their miracle player, but I have participated in their improvement.
"I left a more than positive image there. However, I don't think I will go back."