Hugo: I Don't Feel Well At Newcastle!

By Martyn Osmond
July 14 2004

'24 Horas' Newspaper in Portugal today attributed some quotes to Hugo Viana stating his desire to leave United. If the quotes are accurate, then the man who cost United £8.5 million from Sporting Lisbon two years ago will surely not be wearing the black and white shirt again this coming season.

Viana: "I don't like being here. I don't feel well at Newcastle,"

"I want to leave, but always with the agreement of those in charge at Newcastle. I am willing to go to any team in the world,"

"Since last season I have shown my desire not to stay at the club. I just want to play."

Viana has not travelled to Asia with the squad, and has not returned to Newcastle for pre-season training, and with the club's blessing. It is widely believed that he will be joining European Champions Porto within the next few days. Viana's agent was quoted in Portugese paper 'O Jogo' as saying the 21-year-old midfielder was keen to join Porto.

Toon boss Sir Bobby Robson had insisted there was 'nothing sinister' about Hugo's absence, while the press claimed he was in Portugal 'handling personal affairs'. Whatever the explanation, it seems unlikely that the number 45 jersey will be occupied by the Portugese when United kick off their Premiership campaign at the Riverside on the 14th August.