Newcastle United players uncertain of future

Jul 16 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

The words of the longest-serving campaigner in the United dressing room are just the latest dispatch from a camp clearly unsettled at the way the club is being run.

Kevin Nolan, Nicky Butt, Steven Taylor, Sebastien Bassong and Jose Enrique have all uttered similar sentiments, laying the

disenchantment of the first-team squad bare for owner Mike Ashley.

But despite their unrest, Hughton is adamant that the players have been training well and applying themselves professionally during these crucial weeks in pre-season.

“Whatever has been said, the application of everyone has been excellent. I can honestly say that I can’t fault any player for what they have done during pre-season,” Hughton said.

“Their requirements are to be as professional as they can be in training and during the games, as and when they come up. It’s inevitable that the longer the situation goes on without a resolution the more and more will be written about it.

“That’s something we have no control over, so we just need to get on with it.”

Like most concerned with Newcastle United, Hughton is still waiting for developments on the managerial and ownership front.

“I’m not quite sure when something is going to happen. I just ignored the story about Joe (Kinnear), to be honest,” he said.

“I have spoken to Joe a couple of times about his recovery from the operation and I do check up with him, but not about anything else.”

While he is still uncertain about his own future, Hughton was happy to see Jonas Gutierrez and Bassong return in good shape after international exertions.

“They both have applied themselves well and we’re glad to have them back. We’ve not had any real injuries so far, which is pleasing, and there is a chance that Oba Martins will be back in full training on Monday.”