Mike Williamson is proving he's Premier class: Hughton

Sep 8 2010 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

CHRIS Hughton has been delighted to see defender Mike Williamson finally get a chance to prove he is good enough to play in the Premier League following a miserable stint at Portsmouth.

Williamson moved to Newcastle in January after failing to make a single first-team appearance at Pompey last season as the south coast club slipped further and further into financial and relegation trouble.

That meant Williamson’s career was effectively in limbo following a summer move from Watford as Portmouth were unwilling to play him in the top flight, as it would immediately activate an additional payment to his former club, restricting him to training sessions and reserve-team football.

It also unfairly suggested there were doubts the 26-year-old, who learnt his trade in the lower leagues with Torquay and Wycombe Wanderers, had the ability to play in the Premier League before his switch to St James’ Park.

“It is early days, but Mike Williamson has been terrific so far,” said Newcastle boss Hughton, who will have Sol Campbell available for selection for the first time when Blackpool arrive on Tyneside at the weekend.

“He has had to wait for this chance to play in the Premier League and he has had some frustrations along the way. There is always going to be a question mark about any player who has not played at that particular level before, but he has done very well in our first three games.

“We always felt he was someone who could make that step up, but you don’t know for certain. It’s the same with any player.

“But he is a very good defender and he has shown that so far. I think he has probably been one of our best players so far and that is down to him.