Richard Offiong to return to St James' Park

By Matthew Jones
January 28 2003

England U19 striker, Richard Offiony looks set to return back to Newcastle United after his 2 months out on loan to 3rd Divison Darlington FC.

During his loan period he has had only one or two decent games. He has featured in just about everyone of Darlington's matches, but isn't a favourite with the fans.

He got a two-goal brace in the FA Cup against Stevenage and looked like he would be the answer to struggling Darlington's problems, but instead he just added to them.

I watched him a few times and he didn't seem to work to win the ball. Never chased the ball back to the keeper and never moved unless he had the ball. Maybe he is used to the less-scrappy high-level football, but he could have at least made an effort.. maybe he would have been more of a favourite with the crowd.

Mick Tait, Darlington's caretaker manager, is in doubt whether or not to extend his loan period. It is however looking unlikey and we can expect Richard back at St James' Park soon.

A Darlington fan is kindly writing a full column on Offiong's time at Feethams. This will go up shortly.