By Matthew Jones
October 17 2003

Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby Robson is convinced that young striker Shola Ameobi is back to his best. Robson was watching last week, as Ameobi starred for the England U21s against Turkey, and felt that he was the best player on the pitch. Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby Robson is convinced that young striker Shola Ameobi is back to his best. Robson was watching last week, as Ameobi starred for the England U21s against Turkey.

ROBSON SAID: "Shola was the best player on the pitch last Friday night. I have a great regard for him.

"My biggest heartache for the boy was when he played the three games at home and he didn't do justice to himself. He didn't play that well when we knew he was way ahead of that.

"But since then he has proved he is still a very good player. He has overcome that bad week.

"He didn't get the best of reports about himself, poor lad, but we love him.

"To be fair he hasn't had much of a chance (playing alongside Shearer). He hasn't had too much of a grounding with Alan.

"I believe if players are intelligent and have got a good football brain that you can play with anybody regardless of size, stature and weight.

"I should think Alan's a very good player to play alongside because he's predictable in that he does all the good predictable, professional things."

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