‘I’m ready for my chance’

NEWCASTLE United defender Paul Dummett has welcomed the competition in the squad – and is determined to make sure he’s ready for the battle.

The Welsh international was replaced by Ciaran Clark for Newcastle’s 1-0 win over Manchester United last weekend and, with Federico Fernandez and Florian Lejeune also vying for a role in the Magpies back three along side Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schär, competition is strong.

“Competition in any team is a big thing to have and I was obviously disappointed not to play but the main thing was the team put a good performance in,” said United academy graduate Dummett.

“Especially after Leicester defeat – everyone on that pitch put on a good performance.

“I was gutted not play but Ciaran came into my position and did really well.

“So I know I just need keep on working hard and trying to make sure I’m ready for my chance when it comes again.”

The victory – courtesy of a Matty Longstaff goal – handed Steve Bruce his first home victory as Newcastle’s head coach.

Having come into the game under immense scrutiny following his side’s collapse at the King Power Stadium, the win was needed.

“It was a massive boost especially after the five-nil defeat against Leicester,” Dummett told the Chronicle at the launch of GivetoLocal UK.

“It was important we bounced back with a performance, that was the most important thing and you know the win was even better.

“It had been a tough week of criticism from everyone but we got back on the training pitch and we had to make sure we worked hard.

“You can’t dwell on the loss too much after the game – so you look at the result, look through the clips and make sure you get better.

“The manager was delighted with the response everyone give.

“It was important that we got three points because you don’t want to be looking at yourself every time looking in the relegation zone – it’s not nice really.”