We are using the ball a lot more than before. The hardest of the physical training is now behind us. In the mornings, we play little matches and exercises based on speed. Afternoon's are spent on muscle-development. Thursday, we leave for Holland for 10 days. We will play 4 matches in preparation when we get there.

Have the World Cup players returned yet?

Dyer, O'Brien and Given returned on Monday. There is also the young Portuguese lad who has arrived, Hugo Viana. We therefore have everybody back.

What do you think of Hugo Viana?

This morning during the small matches, he showed some interesting things. He possesses a very good touch of the ball. He really isn't bad.

Have the players experienced any physical hitches since the return to training?

No, nothing has shown. Everything has went well apart from blisters on our feet. (laughs)

Do you know if there are any repercussions following the article which appeared in The Sun last week?

My team-mates have spoken to me about it, but they quickly understood that it was full of lies.

Has Newcastle's summer-spending stopped?

I don't know. The manager may want to take some new players on.In any case, I believe we have signed the Ipswich defender, Titus Bramble. I must leave you there. Until next time, bye.