By Nick Raynor
August 5 2006

Newcastle United legend Les Ferdinand has paid tribute to Shola Ameobi, claiming he can score goals for Newcastle.

Ameobi has not really been considered much more than a bench-warmer by Geordie fans, but with people still not sure about Luque, Shearer retired and £17 million signing Michael Owen likely to be out for months, Ameobi is the only recognised striker left.

 

Roeder is desperate to sign a striker but so far, only left winger Damien Duff has arrived after signing from Chelsea for £5 million.

 

But ex-Newcastle striker ‘Sir Les’ has claimed that Shola Ameobi can do the job for the Magpies, evening likening him to the situation Andy Cole was left in when Eric Cantona retired at Manchester United, and himself at QPR.

 

Ferdinand said:

 

"For me there is already a player at Newcastle who has what it takes to get the goals this season.

 

"That player is Shola and we have already seen glimpses of what he can do when he has played alongside Alan Shearer.

 

"But because he has been a young player coming through and he has actually been playing in Alan's shadow, I think he will only get better.

 

"Sometimes it is hard for a striker, particularly the younger ones, to shine.

 

"Now that Alan has retired, that is an obstacle taken away for Shola.

 

"I certainly think he has the capabilities to do well.

 

"Look at Andy Cole when was at Manchester United.

 

"He only started to produce the goods on a frequent basis at Old Trafford when Eric Cantona retired.

 

"It does happen in football for some reason.

 

"I can also speak from experience as well during my QPR days.

 

"Back then we had Roy Wegerle playing at Loftus Road and I found it hard to shine while he was getting the goals.

 

"It becomes difficult to focus, but when Roy left for Blackburn, Les Ferdinand became a different player for QPR.

 

"That could be the same at Newcastle with Shola.

 

"He now has the responsibility on his shoulders

 

”Hopefully he can rise to that challenge because he certainly is capable and has the ability."

 

Ameobi will look to add to his pre-season goal tally tonight when Newcastle take on Villarreal in their final friendly of pre-season.