Peter Lovenkrands thanks fans for helping him cope

Feb 8 2010 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

PETER Løvenkrands has admitted he does not know how he would have coped with the death of his father if he had not received such strong support from Newcastle United as he thanked the fans for helping him through a traumatic few months.

Løvenkrands came off the bench to score twice in the brilliant 5-1 thrashing of Cardiif City on Friday night and took his tally to eight goals in 20 appearances this season to underline his importance to the side.

But it was the reaction he got when coming on to the pitch which thrilled him as he spoke for the first time about how he has struggled to cope with the loss his father, and the numbing grief which has followed.

Løvenkrands decided to play against West Bromwich Albion just three days after his dad passed away and insisted United’s promotion push has been the ideal tonic as he tries to keep a lid on his emotions.

“It’s been a hard couple of months for me with the death of my father and they (Newcastle supporters) have been a massive help,” said Løvenkrands, who also revealed he has no desire to be given the famous number nine shirt at United, as he is happy with his traditional 11.

“I really, really appreciate the support the fans have given me and I can’t thank them enough.

“Even when you are going for a warm up it feels amazing to have the fans clapping and cheering you.

“When I get on, the backing means so much.

“Playing for Newcastle has given me something to take my mind off things. It helps going out there and trying to focus on other things, even going into training helps. But it’s still very hard, you still get moments when it all gets on top of you.

“It can be really tough and that’s when it’s great to have the players and the fans behind you.

“It was a really difficult decision to play against West Brom but I want to help Newcastle get up. When I did what I did after he had died, it just felt like the right thing to do and I think people appreciated it.

“I thought about it for a long time, but I think I made the right choice. It’s what my dad would have wanted and it was what I needed to help me get my head around things.”