SAMMY Ameobi says there is no need to panic at Newcastle United’s “small rough patch” – as he says a top-six finish remains the aim for Alan Pardew’s “talented squad”.
Injuries and suspensions, along with a tough run of fixtures, have conspired to leave United without a win in four, a stark contrast to the stunning form that helped them into second in the Premier League just over a month ago.
The inevitable result has been questions about Newcastle’s staying power, especially with the back four that has served them so well broken up until the start of next season at least.
But Ameobi junior – in the frame for a start against Swansea as Gabriel Obertan’s form has slipped – is certain that belief remains at St James’ Park.
And he is certain that the squad has enough ability to clip Swansea’s wings when they turn up on Tyneside this weekend.
“There is no need to start panicking or worrying because we’re having a little spell. We’ve got massive talent in this squad and we’ll be able to stay up there,” he told The Journal as he participated in the Newcastle players’ annual visit to the city’s RVI Hospital.
“We’ve had a little bit of a rough patch, that’s true. But which team in the league doesn’t have one? Even Manchester City have lost a game now.
“We’ll be able to bounce back against Swansea – there’s a huge amount of confidence in the squad that we’ll be able to do that. There’s no fear from us and confidence is still very high.
United are set to be boosted by the return of Cheick Tioté and skipper Fabricio Coloccini this weekend – both huge additions to a squad that was stripped down to the bare bones for the battering at Carrow Road.
Swansea will pose a different challenge on Saturday and boss Pardew will again counsel against over-confidence against a newly-promoted side – especially one that has caused problems for their opponents this season.
Still, the Swans have only picked up two points on their travels all season and it looks like a perfect opportunity for the team to get their season back on track.
Ameobi is certain that the team will emerge from this fallow period with their dreams of a Europa League tilt in tact.
“To be where we are, we deserve it. We’ve got the talent to be seventh in the league and the injuries won’t affect us,” he said. “It’s a small rough patch but we’ll come through it. We’re sure of that.”
United will also be heartened by the sight of Mike Williamson returning to action in the 1-1 reserve team draw against Bolton.
The former Watford defender could now be in the frame for the visit of West Brom next week.
Meanwhile, United were completing the formalities of Modibo Maïga’s medical in London yesterday. Sources close to the player indicated to The Journal that everything appeared to have gone smoothly – paving the way for a January switch for a fee in the region of £7million.
Whatever you need this Christmas, go to www.LocalMole.co.uk - the fast, accurate local business directory.
