Today, I interviewed Sky Sports News reporter and Newcastle United fan Pete Graves to discuss all things Newcastle. Before I get underway, I would like to thank Pete on behalf of everyone at Read Newcastle for giving up his precious time to talk with us. He had some very interesting comments to make. Here’s the interview in full:
What were your initial thoughts on the appointment of Steve McClaren and how do you think he has fared so far?
It wasn’t a surprise. I think he’d been the club’s first choice since the departure of Alan Pardew and they eventually got their man. I’ve been encouraged by his start as well, even though the points aren’t on the board yet, he’s certainly given the place a lift. Players and staff at the club that I speak to seem far more positive and you can hear from the noise inside St James’ Park that the fans are feeling more positive too.
Do you think the club has spent wisely in the summer transfer market?
They’ve signed some really promising young players, but it’s always a gamble with younger players from foreign leagues as to whether they can settle quickly and adapt to the Premier League. If the new boys can manage to adapt quickly, then it could be an exciting season.
Which signing are you most excited by and why?
There’s just something about Aleksandar Mitrovic. He’s perhaps been a little naive so far and let the occasions get the better of him, but he looked good at Old Trafford and if he can sort his temperament out, I expect him to become a good player for us.
What positive changes have you witnessed in comparison to Pardew/Carver’s reigns and Steve McClaren’s reign so far?
I think after the disappointment of last season a change was vital. Steve has arrived with a fresh team behind him and a fresh set of idea’s and it’s given the whole place a lift. Long may it continue.
Where do you think Newcastle will finish at the end of the season?
The target is top 8, but a lot will depend on how quickly the new players settle. I certainly don’t see us being in a relegation battle come the end of the season, but there’s a long way to go.
What’s your favourite ever match as a Newcastle fan?
That’s a tough one. Tino Asprilla’s hat trick against Barcelona was a great night to be in the Gallowgate, but I don’t think you ever top your first ever game. Mine was Derby County at St James’ Park in 1991. It was an FA Cup game and Newcastle won 2-0. I was 8 years old and I never looked back.
Can you see the club making any more big money signings in the January transfer window?
They’re talking about spending more money in January so hopefully we see some more arrivals. I expect a lot will depend on where we are in the Premier League when the window opens, but there are a lot of players whose contracts are running down who could become available in January, so there could well be some significant movement.
And finally, what would your preferred line-up be for our next match against West Ham?
Obviously Aleksandar Mitrovic is suspended, so I just hope Ayoze Perez gets a start up front. The young Spaniard really impressed me last season so I hope he gets a chance in these next three games.
