By Carys Baptist
June 9 2005

With Newcastle United looking to get rid of Laurent Robert for approximately 4M this summer it’s a good job some one is showing an interest in the French winger

 

Portsmouth FC has declared an interest in Robert after he suffered a mixed season at St James’ Park.

 

Over the last few months Robert has gone directly to the press (or his personal website) commenting on the Geordie club, fans, and manager, behaviour which is recognised as inappropriate by the club, but seemingly acceptable to the Frenchman.

 

Back in March Robert was quoted saying how much he would love to stay at Newcastle

"I would prefer to remain here, but if the manager doesn't want me, it is no problem,"

However he didn’t really seem that bothered by the fact he may be released.

Previously he had said of his manager…

“He doesn't talk to me. There's nothing. He just doesn't like me.

He says I am lazy in training and tells people I am no good. All the time I am just supposed to sit on the bench……”

And of his club…

"Normally Newcastle are challenging for a top-three place but now the club is nowhere near that level.

That hurts me and it's very hard for everybody. Every fixture we face these days there is a question mark hanging over us. I don't know why this is happening, but I find it very frustrating. In my four years at the club we have never gone so long without a win."

With such an attitude to his current team is surprising anybody is taking an interest, with the knowledge that whilst he says he is committed and whilst he seems to do no wrong in his eyes he speaks out about issues which perhaps should be dealt with in an office rather than the back pages of a tabloid newspaper.

Pompey boss Alain Perrin said the following on the matter:

 

"We're looking for a left-sided player and Laurent is someone I would like to bring to the club,

 

We're looking for several players, most of all a left-winger, a central defender and a centre-forward."