Milner's View on Newcastle Switch (And Fans Views)
By Matthew Jones
July 3 2004
After moving to Newcastle United for £5m, former Leeds' ace James Milner can't wait to kick things off with his new club. Milner, aged 18, signed a 5-year-contract after passing a medical and is 'very excited' about his future.
On Monday, the 18-year-old will meet his new team-mates as the Magpies' and Sir Bobby link up for pre-season training, where he will meet former Leeds' players Lee Bowyer and Jonathon Woogate.
Quotes attributed to James Milner in the Evening Chronicle, say:
"Obviously I've got mixed feelings about leaving the club I've been with for such a long time.
"But I am very excited about the challenge ahead of me - coming to a club like Newcastle United is fantastic.
"You just have to look at the squad list and the coaching staff. They have got some unbelievable players, inter-nationals and some who are at the top of their game.
"Alan Shearer has been scoring goals for a long time and keeps on doing it. To play with guys like him is a dream come true and can only help me become a better player.
"I always watched him as I was growing up and the number of goals he has scored in his career is incredible.
"I'm looking forward to training and playing with Alan and the rest of the players. It will be a joy just to do that. I cannot wait to meet up with everyone. I know I can become a better player at Newcastle and the standard of the side around me can only help make that easier."
Milner is Newcastle's first cash signing since Darren Ambrose moved from Ipswich over a year ago.
What do you think about Milner's move? Let us know!
Bryan says:
'Personally I think its a good signing. Will stregthen the squad and maybe let Robert know he's not guarenteed a place. 5m though?'
Leeds United fans aren't too happy with the move however, and Simon Jose, of the Leeds United Independent Fans' Association, said:
'I just feel that we are back to square one - where the only way to raise money is by selling players. Selling Jonathan Woodgate wasn't the answer and now we've come full circle.'