Llambias to back Hughton in the transfer window
Dec 23 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal
Although the financial situation remains tight and Ashley will have to invest some more of his own money to pay any transfer fees in the January window, Llambias hopes the club will be able to announce some new signings next month.
The former casino boss would not give any indication as to whether either Danny Simpson or Marlon Harewood would remain at St James’ Park when their loan deals expire next week as “that is something Chris must talk about” – but he has pledged funds will be available.
He said: “Mike is totally committed to the club and fully focused on promotion, that is what he wants more than anything.
“We don’t envisage anyone leaving in January because we want to make sure Chris has the players he needs to get us back up.
“Chris has given us things to work on in January in terms of signing players – and we are trying to make those things happen.
“We will have to see, but we want to help and Mike will put the money in to help if Chris feels that it gives the club a better chance of returning to the Premier League.”
Llambias was also happy to compliment the Newcastle players who decided to stay in the summer after the blow of relegation.
And he argued that they genuinely wanted to be on Tyneside to help put right last season’s wrongs.
He added: “Enormous credit has to be given to Chris and Colin (Calderwood) for the wonderful job they have done with the support of the players.
“I think one of the biggest changes has been the spirit in the camp. We have got some excellent characters in the dressing room, the players want to be here and there is a good mix of youth and experience.
“They feel as though they have something to prove and they want to put things right after what happened last season.”
He added: “We haven’t achieved anything yet, there is still a long way to go and we cannot be complacent.
“But everything feels a lot more positive around the place. Hopefully that will continue to the case.”
