Ameobi exit talk dismissed
17 Nov 2007 - 15:32:18
Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has ruled out an imminent exit from St James' Park for striker Shola Ameobi.
The 26-year-old was wanted on loan by Norwich City, while a number of other clubs are believed to be tracking the big frontman.
However, Allardyce told The Journal: "Shola is going absolutely nowhere, he remains very much a part of my plans and we are not interested in selling him in January.
"I don't want to lose him, he is a very talented player who has an important role to play in the squad.
"We've got a small squad here that can just about cope with injuries and suspensions, but we cannot afford to let anyone go. We will not be selling anyone in January.
"He has been frustrated because he has not really had a chance to show me what he can do, but I know what he is capable of.
"The only reason he has not been involved recently is because he has been injured. He has not been able to establish himself so far this season because of niggling injuries, that's all.
"He was still recovering from a serious hip injury at the end of last season and, although he has done that now, he has picked up a few little problems which have held him back.
"It's not been easy for him, but he's training properly again now and he will be involved in the next few weeks."