Ryan Taylor hoping for Premier League chances

Sep 30 2010 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

RYAN Taylor has been banging on Chris Hughton’s door this week because he does not want to be stereotyped as a cup specialist.

The right-back started both Newcastle United’s League Cup ties this season, scoring stunning goals in each. But he has played only 14 minutes of Premier League football, at the end of the 6-0 demolition of Aston Villa.

With questions starting to be asked about Taylor’s rival James Perch, he is hoping for his chance in Sunday’s trip to Manchester City – particularly with first-choice right-back Danny Simpson expected to return next month.

“I’d like to think I’m doing everything that could be asked of me but it’s only Chris that picks the team,” said the Merseysider. “I can only do what I’ve been doing. I’m sure it’s in the back of his mind. He knows what I can do anyway.

“I don’t want to be one of these players who only plays cup games. But the season’s only just got going.

“I will be looking to try and play, it’s just the way things have gone at the minute it’s just not gone my way.

“Danny played quite a lot of games last season and he’s just coming back from injury now, which will increase the fight for places. It’s in the back of my mind. He’s still maybe a couple of games off yet but hopefully by then I will have had a chance and will take it.”

Newcastle have made a habit of winning games they are expected to lose this season – and vice-versa.

The latest reverse, 2-1 at home to Stoke City, was perhaps a factor in owner Mike Ashley’s appearance at training yesterday. Taylor’s answer is to be less expansive at St James’ Park.

“Blackpool came and played really well whereas against Stoke we had all the possession and chances and they just tried to come and play for set pieces,” he said.