Graeme Souness - Excited by the Challenge

By Matthew Jones
September 13 2004

51-year-old Graeme Souness is looking forward to his time at St James' Park. Speaking to the Official website (www.nufc.co.uk), Souness explained how he is excited at the challenge which lies ahead of him.

The Scot has signed a two-year contract and said: 

"I'd firstly like to thank Sir Bobby for the work he did here, as well as the lads who left the club on Sunday.

"I can't tell you how excited I am to be taking over as manager here. I've played and worked at some massive clubs, and this is up there with them.

"The aim has to be to win things, and with the group of players I have at my disposal I am confident we can do that. When I look at this squad, I think it is probably the best I've ever had as a manager.

"A club of this size and stature has to be winning things, that is the bottom line.

"I have my own ideas, or course, but I won't be making any dramatic changes.

"I saw the game on Saturday and the system is pretty much the one I use. The team on Saturday gave 100 per cent, every single player did, but that has to be the minimum that I ask from them.

"They showed me on Saturday what they are capable of, and if they can do it once then I'd like to think they can do it every week.

"The main task for me at the moment is to get to know that players, and they have to know me.

"I'm looking forward to getting started now, and I am fully aware how much the people love their football up here. I spent five years as a player down the road at Middlesbrough, so I know about the passion in the North East. The people here remind me very much of the Scots, who love their football as well.

"Everything at this football club is in place to be successful, and I hope I can be the man to deliver it."

What can Souness achieve at Newcastle United? Post your thoughts!