Woodgate To Up The Pace

By Carys Baptist
April 2 2004

Jonathon Woodgate has suffered injury hell over the last few months but is determined to put his injuries behind him and concentrate on playing for the team he has come to appreciate. Sir Bobby Robson bought Woody to Newcastle in a 9M deal, which saw Leeds Utd lose their star Striker.

Sir Bobby Robson bought Woody to Newcastle in a 9M deal, which saw Leeds Utd lose their star Striker.

Born in Middlesborough 24 year old Woodgate has recently impressed Sven Goran Eriksson who gave him his fifth international cap midweek against Sweden in which he partnered Chelsea’s John Terry until Sven changed the team over.

"It was brilliant for me to be involved with England again. Every player likes to be in the England set-up and I've missed a good few games through injury, so it's great to be back.

It spurs you on knowing the manager wants you. I know if I get my injuries out of the way, I'll be in the squad.”

Woodgate’s injuries this season include a double hernia operation, a virus, a torn hamstring and groin trouble. Keeping him out for about 2 months

"Newcastle spent a lot of money on me and it's just a nightmare when you keep getting injuries which don't go away.

It's frustrating - massively - and you just go home at night and wonder when it's going to end. Hopefully it has ended now.''

Woodgate also praised his fellow player Alan Shearer saying that he is a “modal Professional”
He also appreciates Sir Bobby Robson’s support throughout his injury trouble

"It makes you proud when the manager talks about you. He has said nice things, but it wouldn't be much good if I got injured again. It doesn't prey on my mind, but I have to keep playing.''

Jonathon Woodgate knows what he has to do and at the moment that’s to get Newcastle United the Fourth place spot in the premier league ahead of rivals Liverpool Charlton and the rest of the teams in contention.

With just points between the teams chasing for Fourth place the team is going to have to earn their wages!