Former Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Newcastle star Geremi Njitap says the city of Newcastle has the best vibe for football, as the Magpies look to return to European competition next season.
Geremi joined Newcastle United in July 2007 after his contract with Chelsea expired. He spent the next two years playing at St James’ Park, making 54 competitive appearances and scoring two Premier League goals.
The first was a brilliant free-kick against Tottenham. But when asked what stood out during his time with the Toon Army, he said:
Speaking exclusively to Telecom, he said:
In Newcastle, you know, it's totally different because it’s one city, and the city has only one club. So everyone who is born there, who grew up there, or mostly lives there, becomes part of Newcastle.
I'm telling you, when you play in front of that crowd- the crowd is amazing. There’s this unique bond between the players and the fans. It’s like they share everything together.
As a player, that gives you courage, and you just want to go out there and give it your all for the team. You just want to perform for them, to make them happy.
It’s the best I have seen in my career. And you see that parade they had when they won the League Cup? That’s just a little insight. If you lived in the town, I bet you'd understand it more- they feel like they live in a different world. I mean it when I say it’s the best I have seen.
The Cameroonian also had some kind words for the current owners, who have transformed the club in recent years, taking them from the Mike Ashley era to becoming winners and Champions League contenders.
I want to say I’ve been really impressed with the ownership. They’ve got money, but they haven’t just come in and spent it to show they’re here.
They’ve bought carefully and made sure that when they’ve spent money, it’s been on the right players — which is rare to see in today’s market. That is really impressive.
For me, there’s no such thing as sudden success. You have to be willing to work hard and make sure you’re doing the right things. That’s why I’ve been impressed with how things have been done.
The Magpies have a strong chance to finish in the top four and bring Champions League football back to St James’ Park. They are currently fourth with 56 points - one ahead of Manchester City- and still have a game in hand.
There’s a general feeling that the League Cup win has lifted spirits and could help them finish the season strongly. Securing a Champions League spot would also help them attract some of the best talent to come and play in Newcastle.
