Newcastle United FC

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Roeder slams Duff rumours

04 Apr 2007 - 11:41:17

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Newcastle United boss Glenn Roeder has dismissed out of hand rumours linking winger Damien Duff with a summer switch to Sunderland.

The 28-year-old Republic of Ireland has struggled to make his mark for the Magpies since his £5million switch from Chelsea at the start of the season, but Roeder has no plans to sanction any deal.

He told the club's official website: "The speculation surrounding Damien Duff and a move to Sunderland is utter rubbish. There is not an ounce of truth in it.

"Damien is at Newcastle United for the long haul. He only signed a five-year contract last summer.

"He did not have a pre-season when he joined us from Chelsea and that always makes it difficult for a player as it means he is playing catch-up.

"He has now also got over the knee injury that has meant an interrupted first season here at St James' Park. In the last couple of games he has probably looked our best player.

"I am putting a squad together here of my own players and players that I want to be here for the long haul and Damien is one of those."

Duff has scored just once in 30 appearances for the Magpies this term.