Best is yet to come from Newcastle United signings

Feb 2 2010 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

CHRIS Hughton has declared Newcastle United’s January recruitment drive a “success” – insisting that all of his new recruits have the potential to become established Premier League players.

United brought their business to a close by signing Coventry City’s pacey forward Leon Best yesterday for an undisclosed fee believed to be a around £500,000, as well as finally selling Geremi to Turkish side Ankaragucu.

The 23-year-old Republic of Ireland signed a three-and-a-half year contract following the permanent deals for Danny Simpson, Mike Williamson and Wayne Routledge – all of whom have substantial experience in the second tier.

But Hughton – who said loan moves between now and the end of the season are “unlikely” – last night refuted suggestions he has recruited solely to get his side out of the Championship.

He believes that his additions are “exciting” and have the ability to improve during their time at St James’ Park.

“We have got good value for money and I believe the squad is in better shape now,” he said.

“It’s a difficult market to operate in. If you want to bring in established strong Premier League players it is going to cost you a lot of money. But I am

delighted with what we have done – I have no complaints about the backing I got from the owner.

“It was not a case of bringing in players who will only do a job for us in the Championship. Wayne Routledge has Premier League experience but Danny Simpson, Mike Williamson and Leon Best are players we feel can develop at the club.

“Can they become regular Premier League players? That is up to the individual and how they develop.

“But they are all a good age and for me, the most important thing is they all have ability and potential to develop into that kind of player.