Dyer struck by missile

By Matthew Jones
August 15 2002

Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer has confirmed he was hit by a missile thrown from the crowd in the aftermath of his goal against Zeljeznicar.

Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer has confirmed he was hit by a missile thrown from the crowd in the aftermath of his goal against Zeljeznicar.

Dyer was struck on the foot by a plastic bottle as he celebrated his second-half strike in United's qualifying round first-leg victory.

But the England star shrugged off the incident as he savoured Newcastle's now almost certain progression to the group stage of the Champions League.

"There were a few things flying around as I celebrated and I got hit on the foot with a plastic bottle - but it was nothing really," said Dyer.

"It was one of the most hostile atmospheres I have known and the first 20 minutes were electric. Credit to their fans."

Meanwhile Dyer also revealed that he has dedicated his goal to injured duo Craig Bellamy and Gary Speed.

"I want to dedicate the goal and the victory to Craig Bellamy and Gary Speed because they did more than anyone last season to get us into the Champions League," Dyer added. "It's a shame they missed out but the young lads who came in for them were magnificent.

"We know the job is only half done but we have got a crucial away goal and we are in a good position to finish things off at St James' Park."