Souness Relieved After UEFA Cup Victory

By Matthew Jones
October 1 2004

Newcastle United manager Graeme Souness is relieved that no injuries were picked up during last night's UEFA Cup victory over Israelis Bnei Sachnin. The Magpies' came out 5-1 winners, winning the tie 7-1 on aggregate. Souness and Magpies' captain Alan Shearer comment...

Souness said:

"I'm relieved we got away without any injuries. They got on us at every opportunity.

"Our football in England is meaty, but there are more aggressive countries.

"Part of the reason the Premiership is great to watch is there's protection for flair players - we didn't have that today but we've got away with it."

Alan Shearer, desperate for silverware, added:

"It's vitally important for the club, for individuals and for the fans.

"We had a great run last year and came within one match of getting to the final, so I hope we can go one better this year.

"We're not greedy here at Newcastle, we'll take any trophy."