Premier League survival a priority insists Newcastle defender Jose Enrique

25 September 2010 20:20
Enrique missed the thrilling 4-3 Carling Cup win over Chelsea but as the Spanish left-back prepared to return to front line duties he maintained that gathering Premier League points is more important than winning silverware. [LNB] "We were playing Chelsea and everyone wants to play in these games," the former Valencia player said ahead of Stoke's visit to St James' Park on Sunday [LNB] Related ArticlesArsenal to play Newcastle in Carling CupNewcastle United v Stoke City: match previewNewcastle keeper Harper targets rapid recoveryNewcastle's Steve Harper out for 12 weeksAmeobi targets regular starting berthWeighty issue: Sol Campbell picture 'unflattering' "The more important thing for us is the Premier League and Stoke. I think we have a good team, and the most important thing is to stay in this league." [LNB]Enrique has won over Newcastle fans since being signed by Sam Allardyce three years ago and is relishing the club's return to the Premier League after leaving behind nagging injury problems. [LNB] "I want to stay injury-free and play in the Premier League games," Enrique said. "It would be a problem for us if I was injured. [LNB] "I know James Perch and Ryan Taylor can play there, but they are not natural left-backs. It is hard for them. [LNB] "I do everything with the physios I have my personal trainer who comes from Spain every week. [LNB] "I work a lot on my hamstring, which was my big problem. It is OK now as yet, I have not had a problem this season so far, so long may it continue. [LNB] "It depends on the manager. I just want to play all the games." [LNB]Shane Ferguson impressed as Enrique's stand-in at Stamford Bridge but he is ready for action against Tony Pulis's dead-ball specialists. [LNB] "The boss played the younger lads, and I understand that," he said. [LNB] "It is good for them, but if the manager wants me to play this game, I will play. It is his decision." [LNB]Meanwhile, Newcastle striker Andy Carroll is looking forward to linking up with Hatem Ben Arfa on Tyneside. [LNB] "Hatem will make chances for all of us," Carroll said. "That is what we needed, he has great technique and acceleration and we can only benefit from it especially at St James' Park. [LNB] "The fans will like that too, and hopefully it means we have an even better chance of success at home. [LNB] "There are a lot more faces here now, but only 11 players can play. I welcome the competition, it makes training more exciting too. You just have to work hard and keep your head down to keep your place in the team." [LNB]

Source: Telegraph