By Peter Donnelly
September 28 2002

After seeing the quotes by Laurent Robert in the newspapers, Bobby Robson has laid down the lay to the Frenchman, telling him to watch his step and be careful on what he says. Robert himself though has denied the quotes. The Mirror claimed that Robert spoke to a French newspaper after the Feyenoord match at St. James'Park, crticising the Magpies.

After seeing the quotes Robson said,

"Let me tell you, I've spoken to Robert because the chairman rang me and the chairman is right to be angry,'' said Robson. "I support the chairman on it.

"Players are paid to play, not to talk. We've looked on his (Robert's) website and there's nothing on it. We've told him to be very careful on his website and if he doesn't then he will be be hauled before the board - and I'll haul him there.

"He tells me he hasn't said those things, he hasn't written an article and he just doesn't understand it. But we've shown him the article, we've shown him the quotes and he doesn't know where it's come from."

Robson will have to take Robert's word this time, but he added,

"What he has to be aware of is the club won't put up with any player, let alone Laurent, speaking irresponsibly.

"He has to be responsible to this club and speak with intelligence and commitment and anybody who doesn't will be in trouble.
"It's very important for the players to know their job is to play and not talk. I've spelt the message out to the players."