Robson Delighted With Milner's Start

By Matthew Jones
July 20 2004

James Milner has only been at Newcastle United for a short while, but he is already mnaking a big impact on proceedings. Magpies' veteran Sir Bobby Robson gives his view on Milner's promising start at the club.

The England Under-21 player moved to St James' Park earlier this month where he linked up with former Leed's pair Jonathon Woodgate and Lee Bowyer.

Milner has played a part in the club's Far East tour, missed a crucial penalty against Thailand in their first penalty shoot-out, but then made up for it by netting United's only goal against FC Kitchee and then putting away his spot kick.

Robson has praised Milner's work rate and said: 

"We're very pleased with him in the two games we've seen him in so far.

"He's shown a willingness to go forward and attack his full back, which I like very much.

"He also stepped up to take a penalty when he missed against Thailand so that says something about his strength of character as well.

"He's got confidence and on this display he is a young talent who is going to be very good for us.

"I was desperate to get him and we have done. He has a big future, I'm certain of that.

"He's comfortable with both feet, as he showed by scoring today with his left and he's versatile because of that.

"We're delighted that he is one of ours now."

After the game, Milner had this to say:

"Obviously the first thing for me was to play, but to get your first goal with your new club so quickly was nice.

"Shola went down the right and pulled it back, and I just managed to have a touch and get a good connection with my left foot and it went in the bottom corner.

"In terms of the trip itself, it has helped me get to know the lads and settle in a bit better than had we been training in Newcastle.

"I've had the chance to get to know everyone, and everyone has been really helpful and made me feel really welcome. It's been a very enjoyable trip.

"It's been difficult in a way because we haven't been back for long and then we've come out and played in this heat against two good, sharp teams.

"It has tested everyone's fitness but I think everyone's done really well.

"When I grew up I was playing on the right a lot because I'm right-footed, but last season, with Jermaine Pennant coming in and doing well on the right, I got switched to the left-hand side as I can use my left foot a bit.

"I enjoy playing on either flank really. Just to be playing is great. I just want to get as much football as I can this year and learn a lot. Hopefully I can become a better player and my target is to get as many games as I can."

Where would you like Milner to play?  Would you rather see him on the left-flank ahead of Robert?  Post your views on the message board!