United aim to strike it lucky with new formation

Apr 22 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

Shearer’s challenge to play through the pain barrier has been heeded, and Dowie believes that his display in North London proved that he remains committed and determined to prove his worth.

Martins hit the headlines for the wrong reasons a fortnight ago with his late withdrawal from the Stoke game, but Dowie reckons that the Nigeria striker can make a positive impact on Monday. “I was very, very pleased with Obafemi, I thought he did brilliantly when he came on,” said Newcastle’s number two.

“He was a threat, he did what he’s good at, he threatened in behind and had two or three excellent opportunities. On another day they go in. We couldn’t have played him from the start – we couldn’t effect that.

“But we’ve got him back in there now and he’ll have a proper week of preparation behind him. He’ll get his rest as well and hopefully he’ll be raring to go by Monday night.

“The display when he came on to the pitch showed that he’s quite prepared to play through the pain barrier and that’s magnificent for us, the Newcastle fans, Alan and myself.”