Robson out to join the big boys

P Belgrade v Newcastle: On TV: Setanta, kick-off 7.30: Ever since the day in September 1999 when Bobby Robson succeeded Ruud Gullit as the manager of Newcastle United the club has been on a continual incline in terms of performance, results and cash.

Newcastle were bottom of the Premiership, one point from six games, the day Robson walked in.

Newcastle finished 11th that season, 11th again, then fourth, then, last season, third. The progression has stimulated, and been stimulated by, a constant flow of money. Robson could afford only £500,000 to make Kevin Gallacher from Blackburn Rovers his first signing, but in his 47 months in charge he has spent £60 million.

Lee Bowyer, Robson's latest signing, was free, but his wages are considerable. They are funded in part by Newcastle's success in the Champions League last season and, though Robson was loath to admit it last night, Newcastle's continued development depends on overcoming Partizan Belgrade in a way that Chelsea's progress in Slovakia does not. Roman Abramovich's bank balance will not be affected by what happens in Zilina.

"I don't know how much we earned last season exactly," Robson said, "but we all have to pay bills. So it's important financially, but from my point of view money is secondary. We're fighting to get into the Champions League. We're not there yet.

"It's the number one tournament, puts you in with the big boys. It's a big responsibility - the players are aware of that."

But Partizan, managed by Lothar Matthaus, have form and some history. Newcastle lost 1-0 here under Gullit five years ago; of greater relevance, Partizan won 6-1 last Saturday.

With the exception of the suspended Bowyer, Newcastle will be at full strength.

NEWCASTLE UNITED (probable, 4-4-2): Given; Griffin, Woodgate, Bramble, Bernard; Solano, Dyer, Speed, Robert; Bellamy, Shearer.

Guardian Service