Peter Lovenkrands can make World Cup

Feb 4 2010 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

Løvenkrands was an unused substitute at the Walkers Stadium as Hughton, sensitive to the Dane’s personal turmoil, continues to give him time and space to come to terms with his loss.

The United boss will continue to offer him support but is hopeful that the striker will be available for the game against the Bluebirds, who are among a clutch of teams chasing Newcastle in the promotion race.

Hughton is considering shuffling his pack for the game, with Leon Best and a fit-again Shola Ameobi both in his thoughts as he toys with the idea of sending out a completely revamped strike force.

“It has been an emotional time for Peter and we decided to rest him. He will be back in contention for the Cardiff City game (on Friday),” he said.

“I believe that with Leon now in the squad we have options for every game up front. Leon has that pace and power and we have Shola (Ameobi), Andy Carroll, Peter and Nile Ranger, who all offer something different.”

Løvenkrands will not be the only striker in the spotlight on Friday as Michael Chopra returns to St James’ Park for the first time since his infamous derby miss in Sunderland colours last season.

The former United forward says he will not celebrate if he fulfils his dream of scoring on the ground he grew up watching football.

“Obviously, I’m a Newcastle fan, and it’s always been a dream of mine to score at St James’ Park,” he said. “It’s still my dream now, but even if I do score, I won’t celebrate. I’ve got a lot of respect for Newcastle and the fans.

“I go to a lot of games, when I’ve got a day off, I get up to Newcastle and watch them play.

“I still support the team – it’s where I was brought up – but on Friday, I’m a Cardiff City player, not a Newcastle player.

“I’ve got to do my best for Cardiff.”