Macelino's farewell message

By Peter Donnelly
January 13 2003

Elena Marcelino has recently commented on his stay with Newcastle United, claiming he wasn't given a chance to show what he could do and his aim is to "become one of the best defenders in the world".

The ex-Toon defender said,

"Some Newcastle fans questioned my ability but you have to ask yourself, 'why did Ruud Gullit bring me to St. James' Park in the first place? Why was I rated so highly in Spain before I was bought?' I think a lot of people totally underestimated my ability.

For me my goal is to become one of the best defender in the world. I feel i'm fairly near that goal, but Newcastle United have certainly hampered my progress. If I had just been given a long run in the team i'm sure I could have tightened up the defence, but I wasn't given that run. Most of the time I was available to play but Sir Bobby Robson totally ignored me and just left me in the reserves team.

It is a shame, but I hope to find a new club quickly and prove to everyone i'm a unique player."