Mark Douglas talks to Gabriel Obertan as he looks to lay down a marker following his summer switch from Manchester United
JOEY Barton isn’t the only one with a point to prove at Loftus Road this evening.
Winger Gabriel Obertan, the man anointed to replace Newcastle’s former favourite agitator, also feels doubters and deriders must be silenced after his August switch to St James’ Park.
Whether the former France under-21 flier gets his chance in West London tonight is a matter for debate but with Alan Pardew searching for a more mobile, rapid Newcastle side this term, his opportunity will come.
And for a man who has had to endure his fair share of brickbats since moving to these shores as a well-heralded wonderkid from Bordeaux, it won’t arrive a moment too soon.
A sharp interviewee with perfect English skills, Obertan is polite and almost unassuming as he discusses a move that ended a year of frustration at Old Trafford, and refreshed his desire to make an impact in the Premier League.
Regarded as fleet of foot but unable to make a lasting impression on games during his time under Sir Alex Ferguson, all Obertan wants is minutes to show what he can do.
That the chance has come at a club of Newcastle’s size – he likens United to Marseille for its passion and significance to the local community – is a sizeable advantage.
“Yes, of course (I have a point to prove), of course,” he concedes. “Even if I’d stayed at Manchester I’d still have something to prove
“I’m just here to enjoy my football and every minute on the pitch.
“Everything’s going well, I want to keep it going. If I keep playing and training well I’ll stay in the team.
“I’ve been here four weeks now I’m settled and I get along with my team-mates and I’m happy.
“It’s different here. It’s the same kind of club as Marseille in France, the same enthusiasm for the team in the city.
“You can see that by how many people are wearing Newcastle shirts around the city. It’s amazing the passion for the club. I’ve made a good start but we have to keep in mind it’s just three games.”
While Obertan comes across as humble, there is a definite steely, determined confidence to him as he delves further into his Old Trafford frustration. It was a career that came to a head when he posted a disappointing display in the FA Cup fourth round tie against Crawley last season.
