Debut hope for new signing Fernandez
FEDERICO Fernández admits he is itching to make his Newcastle United debut.
The centre-back arrived as a deadline-day buy but is yet to play a single minute for the Magpies following his £6m move from Swansea City.
The 29-year-old has spoken about the passion for football on Tyneside and, after being named on the bench for the 0-0 draw with Cardiff City, could be given a home debut against Chelsea on Sunday or earn his first taste of action at Nottingham Forest in the League Cup next week.
Fernández told The Chronicle: “There is passion here. I can see that already.
“When I first went to the stadium people were visiting and there are people who come to the training ground waiting for the players to speak to them.
“It is a city which is very passionate. I love to see that. It is where I want to play my football.
“You want that passion in every single game.
“I am happy to sign here and be here for the season.”
Fernández knew he would have to battle for his place after swapping the Championship with Swansea for the Premier League with the Magpies.
Ciaran Clark, Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar are also scrapping for places in the heart of Rafa Benitez’s back four.
However, the ex-Argentina international says he is focused on the challenge in front of him.
He added: “I will try every day to help push players and try to encourage them to improve.
“I have played four years in the Premier League with Swansea.
“I am here to work hard every day and improve. I want to get better day by day.”