Have you found it easy to watch the games when theyve been
on?
Yeah, because thats what Ive been working towards. Ive got to be
tuned in, Ive got to be positive t make sure when the time comes
Im ready.
Ole Solskjaer has spoken of watching games and picking
things up from the stands that you may not notice on the
pitch
Yeah, Roy Keane said the same thing to me, he told me that when he
did his cruciate he learnt a lot about the game just by watching. I
always thought If you can be there, then be at the game, but its
good that so many games are televised these days, so that keeps you
involved as well. If the lads are talking about a game and you say,
I havent seen it, I think thats showing a lack of respect to
them. It was nice to watch them when I could.
The manager has said that this season he sees you as a
centre-forward.
Yes, thatll be nice! I signed for this club as a centre-forward
and I believe I can be as good a centre-forward as I want to be. I
can do a job in midfield but Im never going to be a world-class
midfield player. When the game is rough and tumble I can get
involved and give as good as I get. But when teams drop off and you
have to be the catalyst and keep moving the ball, that's when I
find it more difficult.
Have you learnt from playing in that midfield role last
season?
Definitely. There were some games when I surprised myself with what
I did! I learnt how disciplined that role makes you, its a lot
more difficult than some people think. I think Makelele does an
unbelievable job for Chelsea because its so difficult to just hold
your position and not get caught out.
How do you compare your style as a striker to the other
forwards at the club?
Im totally different from Wayne Rooney, Louis Saha or Ole Gunnar
Solskajer. Whoever plays, we all complement each other. It's a
great blend.
Are you looking forward to playing with new signing Michael
Carrick?
Yeah, Ive known Michael since I was, like, 10 years old. We used
to play together in the North-East so Ive known him a long time.
Hes an intelligent player, his weight of pass and distribution is
quality, and hes a good young signing. Hell add something
different and hopefully he can feed the wide players and forwards,
and create ample opportunities for us. Weve got a lot of good
young players coming through as well. The gaffers always said that
if youre good enough at this club youll get a chance, and thats
been proven again. Michaels been a good addition. Weve not made
many signings but I dont think the gaffer has wanted to rush into
any signings that wouldnt be good for the future.
And with everyone fit, this squad is as good as
anyones.
Undoubtedly. When you look around theres world class players
everywhere. That just fills you with confidence.
Finally, can you imagine what its going to be like running
out at Old Trafford again?
Erm, not really! Someone wrote me a letter that said, Just think
about the reception youll get. If times are hard and youre
finding it difficult, just think about that first game. And Im
thinking about it!
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