Thinking positive goes a long way in survival bid

Mar 29 2009 by Mark Douglas, Sunday Sun

“There wasn’t long left and it just settled everyone’s nerves because it was getting a bit jumpy at that point. Definitely one of the highlights of my career.”

How United could do with a ‘Kelly moment’ now.

Two points adrift of safety with a run of treacherous fixtures before the end of the campaign — things are looking every bit as bleak as they did back in 1992.

“It’s concerning and worrying to see them in that kind of trouble. I might be biased because I loved playing there, but it’s a special place to play and watch football and the Premier League needs Newcastle United. It’s a real shame but no-one has a God-given right to be in the Premier League.

“I don’t know what happened with Kevin, I’ve not spoken to him about it. Those things happen in football and it’s sad in a way, but I don’t know what went on with him and the chairman and the owner.

“I know Chris Hughton from my days with Ireland and he is a super guy. He is the most professional person you could possibly wish to meet and you can guarantee that no one is hurting more than he is.”

Memories of relegation with Sunderland when the team notched over 40 points are more bitter.

“I enjoyed my time at Sunderland just as much as my time at Newcastle — it was another great club,” he said.

“It didn’t work out for us and to go down with that many points was a sickener.

“Ricky Sbragia was at the club as reserve team boss when I was there and I have kept in touch. I was delighted for him when he got his chance and he’s another who is a terrific guy and a first-rate professional. They couldn’t hope for a better guy, really.”

If the worst comes to the worst Kelly may be seeing more of his old friends next season — provided he and Billy Davies can keep Nottingham Forest in the second tier.

Despite the affection that he would be assured on Tyneside, it is a scenario that neither would want.

“The Championship doesn’t want a Newcastle or a Sunderland in the division — it’s difficult enough to get out of as it is!

“I don’t want them in the division for personal reasons, but I don’t think it would be welcomed by many managers in the Championship — they’d have a bigger wage budget and they’d be competing with all of us for players too.

“I can’t imagine Newcastle or Sunderland would want to try this division. Leeds found it difficult and look at Charlton, Watford and Southampton — all struggling. Even Reading, who spent money and kept most of their players, are having a wobble.”