Steve Caldwell unhappy at Woodgate's signing

By Matthew Jones
February 3 2003

Newcastle defender Steve Caldwell is unhappy with Bobby Robson buying Jonathon Woodgate. Caldwell is trying to earn his first team place back and is trying to agree a new contract, but it is unlikely he will get a game now with another defender to pick from.

Newcaslte's 22 year old defender, Steve Caldwell, who is trying to earn a new deal at St James’ Park, is frustrated by the addition of another centre back to the squad. Can you blame him though? He is trying to earn his first team place back, and Sir Bobby buys another player instead of using the ones he already has.

"Jonathan Woodgate's arrival will mean more competition for me," he told the Sunday Sun.

"If the club think that's the right signing, then great. I'll have to battle him for a place or play alongside him.

"If I play alongside him, I'll be happy. But if I'm not in the side then I'll not be happy and this may not be the place for me.

"I'm 22 and I'm not going to sit it out any longer. I've waited, I've been patient and I've seen a lot of players come and go and it's getting to the point now where I've got to play.

"I know I'm good enough but if I'm not playing here I'll have to look to go somewhere else to prove myself. I'm not going to be a ten games a season player any more."

Caldwell has performed well when he has had the chance to play this season and his frustration is understandable.