By Akin Odejayi
November 6 2003

Sir Bobby Robson has ruled out the possibility of Hugo Viana quitting Newcastle United in January's transfer window, he claims Viana was "distraught" by weekend reports that he had decided to leave Newcastle after failing to earn a regular place in the team Sir Bobby Robson has ruled out the possibility of Hugo Viana quitting Newcastle United in January's transfer window, he claims Viana was "distraught" by weekend reports that he had decided to leave Newcastle after failing to earn a regular place in the team

Sir Bobby Robson said: "I won't be here for another ten years - but I've told Hugo I hope he is.
"He's unhappy because he wants to play, and naturally he's concerned about his chances of playing for Portugal in Euro 2004 next summer.

"But he's 20 and people are saying it's his last chance. He's got another 14 years to play.

"Hugo was so distraught on Saturday that he rang me at 1.30pm and asked to see me.

"I was busy preparing for the Aston Villa match and I told him not to worry.

"I saw him on Monday and he said he couldn't understand the story because neither he nor his agent had spoken to anyone.

"We bought Hugo because eventually we want him to replace Gary Speed. He's on a five-year contract and he's frustrated, but he knows he has to soldier on.

"He doesn't like playing wide because he doesn't see as much of the ball as he wants, but Gary Speed was in his best position for most of last season.

"We've seen recently how Diego Forlan has benefited from playing regularly, and Hugo would be the same.

"We realise the situation, but he loves the club and he loves the Premiership. We want to keep all of our best players - and Hugo is one of our best players."