Press article:
Forgotten man Robbie relishes clean sheet - 13/09/2004
Robbie Elliott savoured Newcastle United's first win in nine Premiership games, insisting both the three points and clean sheet were a "long time coming."
Elliott was handed his second start of the season against Blackburn Rovers, and he had an assured game alongside Andy O'Brien in the centre of defence, with John Carver forced to switch Aaron Hughes to left-back to cover for the injured Olivier Bernard.
Forgotten man Elliott will be hoping to stay involved under new boss Graeme Souness, having now ended his exile from the team.
"It's been a long time coming," said Elliott. "We mentioned before the game that a good result was so important given the European tie coming up on Thursday, and the lads produced a performance that we can be proud of.
"I was one of those left behind with the internationals and we've had a fantastic two week's training. It's been very hard, but very enjoyable.
"It's testament to the staff left behind that they've kept things together given all the things happening off the pitch. Our bread and butter was this match and for the staff it's been a difficult two weeks.
"As a defender you want to keep a clean sheet first and foremost and that's been a long time coming too so I'm delighted with that.
"We are always going to score goals and create chances, but we need clean sheets as well.
"There was also a couple of penalty decisions that went against us. But the lads didn't let it effect them, and one time when we weren't given the penalty within 10 seconds had won the ball back. That showed great character."
Elliott's 20-month exile from first team football at United was ended in the first game of the season at Middlesbrough.
Evening Chronicle
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Corporate hospitality with John Beresford
Bez announces a corporate hospitality facility to entertain up to eight people during every home Newcastle United Premiership fixture. For further details please click on the link... [More]
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