Newcastle Set to Pip Spurs to Duff

By Nick Raynor
July 21 2006

Reports in the media suggest that Newcastle United are about to sign Chelsea’s Damien Duff from under Tottenham’s noses.

Duff wants away from Stamford Bridge after a midfield packed of world class players has meant he may struggle to get on the substitutes bench.

 

Tottenham had made 2 bids for Duff and it was widely expected to be his destination, but at the last minute, it seems Newcastle have made a move for the Irish winger.

 

It is also reported that Duff would prefer a move to the North East, rather than to Tottenham, but this may depend on whether Newcastle can qualify for the UEFA Cup.

 

Jose Mourinho is prepared to let Duff go because he cannot guarantee him first team football.

 

Mourinho said:

 

"There are always a few I want to leave and a lot I'm desperate to keep,"

 

"There are always a couple of players I would like to keep but who I have no courage to keep when I can't promise that they will be playing.

 

"I like Damien as a player and as a person. I listened to him for a couple of hours and I could understand what he has in mind. After that it becomes business. He's such a good player we will do good business with another club."