Chris Hughton is happy for three goal star

Jan 14 2010 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

NEWCASTLE United cruised into the fourth round of the FA Cup last night as Peter Løvenkrands grabbed his first hat-trick in English football in a swaggering victory over Plymouth.

United’s progress never looked in any serious doubt in front of their lowest crowd at St James’ Park in 18 years as they set up a tricky trip to fellow Championship promotion candidates West Bromwich Albion in the next round.

But it was still a night to remember for Løvenkrands, who made the most of his chance to start in his favoured centre forward position and Jonas Gutierrez’s creative spark on the left flank.

The Danish international has rarely been given a run in the starting line up, but he was clinical in front of goal as he completed a memorable hat-trick midway through the second half.

With Leeds United’s Jermaine Beckford still on United’s January shopping list the competition for places up front will be intense, and this was the perfect way for Lovenkrands to show he cannot be ignored whoever arrives later this month.

“I’m well aware of what Peter can do and I’ve always said, since I brought him to the club that he offers us something different from the other strikers at the club,” said delighted Newcastle boss Chris Hughton. “He is a different type of player who plays on the shoulder of the defenders and looks to get in behind them. Some of the link up play between Peter and Jonas was terrific.

“He can play in three different positions as well. Although I think that is the one he prefers through the middle, he has played out side numerous times.

“It was good to see him get the hat-trick on this occasion playing in his favoured role, but it hasn’t changed our thinking in terms of what we want to do in the transfer market. All that is on going but there is nothing new to report.”