Solano to quit? Bellamy to sign a new contract?

By Matthew Jones
November 25 2002

Solano is concerned about his lack of starts, while Bellamy is expected to sign a new deal. Solano, if he keeps getting left out of the first team, will re-consider his future - without The Magpies.

Peruvian midfielder Nolberto Solano has warned Newcastle he will have to consider his future if he is left out of the first team.

"If the club doesn't want me, then there's nothing I can do about that, but I'm desperate to stay at St James' Park," said Solano.

The 27-year-old was devastated to be left out of the side that clinched their place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The Magpies beat Feyenoord 3-2 in Rotterdam to advance to the second phase of the Champions League.

"This is the most exciting time since I've been on Tyneside and nobody would want to leave a side in the second phase of the Champions League. But it might not be in my hands."

Solano came off the bench in Saturday's 5-3 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Manager Bobby Robson has challenged him to fight for his place but Solano may consider other options.

"I've been at the club for more than four seasons now and I just don't expect to be on the bench. If I am not playing first-team football, then I would have to consider my future."

Robson has kept faith with the Peruvian international throughout much of his reign.

But repeated trips back to South America on international duty has strained their relationship.

Meanwhile, Craig Bellamy is expected to agree a new long-term deal with Newcastle by the end of next week. The Welsh striker is still discussing the terms of a new contract but boss Sir Bobby Robson does not anticipate any problems.

"All I know is that Newcastle want Craig Bellamy and Craig Bellamy wants to be at Newcastle," said Robson.