Danny Guthrie is hoping for a chance

Aug 16 2010 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

DANNY Guthrie hopes he has done enough to secure a place in the centre of midfield when Newcastle begin a new Premier League season at Old Trafford tonight.

Guthrie made his Newcastle debut in the 1-1 draw with Manchester United two years ago, but the young midfielder is convinced he is a far better player now than he was when Kevin Keegan signed him from Liverpool.

Having excelled last term when he was moved off the right wing and into the middle, the 23-year-old would love the opportunity to show what he can do in the middle of the pitch this season.

The competition for places in that area is fierce with Joey Barton back to full fitness, while Alan Smith and Kevin Nolan are also looking to start in those positions.

Guthrie said: “It was a good season for me last year. I the first half of the season I was playing out wide a lot and it is always difficult when your preferred position is in the middle, but my main aim was I wanted to play.

“I was asked to do a job and I did it for the team.

“It was not a problem, but after Christmas I had a chance in the middle and I took it with both hands, which I was pleased with.

“It was probably the best spell I have had at Newcastle.

“Hopefully, I can get a good season under my belt and start in one of the central positions this season.

“I am going to be coming up against some of the best players in the world in that position, but it is a great feeling.

“It is a good feeling to put yourself against the best players and you like to think you can hold your won against them. I just have to prove it.”

Like most United players, Guthrie eventually found the humbling experience of relegation did him good as the Magpies stormed to the Championship title.

He added: “I do think I am a better player after a year in the Championship, not that I want to do it again.

“It makes you stronger in terms of your mental strength, as well as physically.

“Also because I have that sense of achievement at the end of it.

“We proved a lot of people wrong last season.

“It was a really positive experience for me as a player and a person, but it is not one I ever want to do again.”