Hughton: Goal was reward for Jonas’ hard work

Nov 9 2009 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

CHRIS Hughton joked that Jonás Gutiérrez’s Spiderman mask “probably has cobwebs on it” after the Argentinian finally broke his duck for Newcastle United.

But the manager insisted his lack of contributions in front of the goal have never been a bone of contention in the dressing room.

Gutiérrez found the net at Darlington in pre-season but his strike against Peterborough United on Saturday was the first in 45 competitive appearances.

The winger later explained the absence of his trademark goal celebration of donning a Spiderman mask, and it was not for the reasons his manager suggested.

“I have never seen the mask, I do not even know if it exists anymore,” said Hughton (pictured right).

“Since he has been here, I have not seen it. It probably has cobwebs on it by now.

“But we are delighted he scored the goal. It broke the deadlock and gave us the emphasis to get the second.

“We are pleased for him because he is an important player for us. It would be nice if he went on a run of goals but we do not expect him to.

“Historically, he has not scored many goals in his career though on Saturday he showed what he is capable of.”

Gutiérrez’s barren streak had not gone unnoticed on the terraces, but nor has it harmed his popularity.

Hughton says the 26-year-old’s colleagues are equally appreciative of his talents.

“He does not get any stick from his team-mates for his lack of goals because he always works hard for the team,” Hughton explained.

“He can change the emphasis of a game by his running ability. He is a player who can lift the crowd.” Saturday’s atmosphere was marred by protests against owner Mike Ashley and although Hughton ducked questions on the matter, he was happy with his side’s response.

“I think what people will remember about Saturday is the fact we have a great support, we won the game 3-1 and our magnificent fans got behind the team,” the manager said diplomatically.

“That is what all my thoughts and focus were on.

“We made home advantage count because we have a team focused on being at the right end of the table.

“We have made a good start ot the season and that gave us the momentum to believe we can sustain this position.”