Magpies aim to keep Butt
02 Nov 2007 - 10:24:58
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- Magpies aim to keep Butt
Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has confirmed he is looking to keep Nicky Butt at the club with the offer of a new contract.
The 32-year-old midfielder has played in every game since Allardyce took the reins at St James' Park in the summer and the Magpies chief is keen to retain his services.
Butt joined Newcastle in a £2.5million transfer from Manchester United in 2004.
Despite a chequered career on Tyneside that has included a loan spell at Birmingham City under former boss Graeme Souness, Butt has gone on to make almost 90 appearances for the club.
"Nicky Butt has been one of our most consistent players this season," Allardyce told the club's official website.
"Contract talks go on above me, but talks are going on. I don't know how far along they've gone but they're happening.
"He's someone I'd like to stick around. He's started this season, has played in virtually every game and has been one of our best performers. I'd like to give him another one, maybe two-year contract.
"In terms of fitness, we can prolong his career with the tools and expertise we have here, like we did with Gary Speed at Bolton.
"But it's up to Nicky Butt how long he wants to carry on playing for. He's only 32, so he's not exactly an old man yet.
"He's looked a real force this season, picking up the loose ball and getting our attacks moving."