Fabricio Coloccini doesn’t believe there is any similarity between Newcastle United’s present Premier League campaign and the one in 2008-09 when they had suffered relegation.
Newcastle presently has got 17 points. Exactly at this point of time in 2008, they had got 22 points. So, they were in a better situation than this back then, but, they still got demoted eventually.
So, the Geordies’ fans have all the reasons to be concerned at the moment.
But, according to Coloccini, the playing group of Newcastle currently is quite different to what it was at that time. It’s far younger in comparison and it’s hungrier as well. So, there is a greater chance of a turnaround.
Speaking to the press yesterday, the captain said, “You can’t say it’s similar to 2008. We did not have as many youngsters back then as we have at this point of time and all of them are keen to make a mark. You can feel that from their body language.”
When asked if he’s disappointed to see that the star signings that Newcastle had made in the summer, they haven’t delivered so far, Coloccini said. “Look, they were part of big clubs before and probably wouldn’t have found themselves in such a situation ever. This is something new for them. But, they are quick learners and would have realized by now how hard the challenge is over here.”
“There’s no room for mistakes from here on in. Half of the season has already gone and we have not been able to collect too many points. So, it’s important we start collecting them now.”
Newcastle takes on Arsenal FC in their first game in the New Year at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
The Gunners, playing at home, would be the top favourites to beat the struggling Geordies.