Chris Hughton in striker warning

Oct 10 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

CHRIS Hughton is delighted with the rapid progress of Andy Carroll and Nile Ranger this season but is wary of letting them get carried away with their success.

Newcastle United caretaker manager Hughton feels the maturing performances of the young strike pair have been the major pluses for him as manager, as they have made light of a long-term injury to Shola Ameobi.

But the former Tottenham defender is also keeping a close eye on their lifestyles as he warned there are plenty of unwanted distractions around for young players in a football-mad city. United have had their problems in the past with players who have enjoyed the city’s nightlife a little too much during the early years of their career, and Hughton does not want to see either Carroll or Ranger waste their talent by falling into any bad habits off the pitch.

He said: “We do talk about the distractions that are out there.

“The most important thing after our games is recovery and doing things right off the pitch as well.

“We continually drive that home to these young players. There are a lot of distractions there for young men in a city like this, but they are professional footballers and they have to remember that.

“Preparation and recuperation have to be key. This league drives it home even more because of the number of games we have to play.

“I have been delighted with their attitude so far, but it is something we will continue to keep a close eye on because they have an important role to play for the team this season.”