ROBSON'S Defensive dilemma

By Matthew Jones
March 1 2003

Who will Sir Bobby Robson play in his back-four today as Chelsea visit St James' Park? Jonathan Woodgate is set to make his debut, but who will make way for him? The current defensive lineup is one of the strongest in the league. Can The Magpies' afford to alter it?

Kieron Dyer has admitted Sir Bobby Robson faces a defensive dilemma for todays clash with fourth placed Chelsea at St James' Park, with Jonathan Woodgate set to make his debut.

The England midfielder - who himself is doubtful for the top-four clash due tp his long-standing shinsplints problem - insists that his close friend, £9,000,000 Woodgate, is far from certain to make his debut.

And Dyer points to the recent form of Titus Bramble and Andy O'Brien in the heart of Newcastle's rearguard as proof that the manager faces a difficult decision.

"It's been great management from the gaffer," he said. "He's gone out and got Jonathan Woodgate and it's given all the other defenders a lift. "Woody is a £9m England international and the other lads know they are going to have to raise their game to his level if they are to stay in the side but they've thrived on the pressure of him coming in. "Knowing Woody, he'll want to play - but it's up to the manager."