Newcastle United star midfielder http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Hatem-Ben-Arfa-c15884 insists that he is well aware of the importance of the local derby against fierce rivals Sunderland, which takes place at the Stadium of Light tomorrow.
The Frenchman insists that he need not be reminded about the importance of winning tomorrow’s Wear-Tyne derby against the Black Cats.
Most of Newcastle’s star players are back in the starting 11 following this month’s international break. Ben Arfa and various other Magpie stars had plenty of time to prepare for the all important game, and are well aware of the consequences of losing.
The player even joked that he was unable to have breakfast properly because all the Toon supporters kept on reminding him about winning tomorrow’s game. The French star will arguably be the most important figure for Newcastle tomorrow as the Magpies travel
to hostile territory.
Ben Arfa is no stranger to these derbies, having played one last season after his return from the horrific ankle injury. The player had come off the bench and put in a spectacular performance for his team.
Speaking to the press in an exclusive interview, Ben Arfa said:
“Everyone in the club, even in the kitchen, has told me ‘now you have to score’, and ‘now you have to win’. It’s the biggest game for Newcastle this season. For the last few weeks, every time I go into town, people have talked about this game. I’m really
looking forward to it.”
Reflecting on his man-of-match performance last year, Ben Arfa added:
“I’m sure every player wants to win for the fans. Last year, I played one half. I felt the atmosphere was very great, unlike other games I’ve played. I’ve never played in Sunderland before, so I think it’s going to be very hard.”
Newcastle have been without most of their first team players in the opening few games of the season, owing to injury woes and setbacks. They will be boosted by the return of captain Fabricio Coloccini, who will lead the team out against the Black Cats.
Having struggled in his absence, the team will benefit from his presence and leadership. The player missed the club’s last three games due to a hamstring injury, but is now 100 per cent fit to play.
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