Wal’s off to Derby - 01/02/2002

In December I was at the Tyne Tees studio with Wal, and we watched the Chelsea v Newcastle Worthington Cup game. Aaron Hughes was playing right back that night – as he’s done for most of the season. For me, the way Aaron’s taken his chance at right back has been fantastic, but for Wal, it’s forced him out of the side. Over the years, Warren has give magnificent service to the club, he’s a great professional, the type of player every manager likes to have in his squad. Ok, just like me, Wal’s had his critics in the stands, but his attitude was never in doubt. He’s worn the captain’s armband – and that honour is not given out without thought. He’s also played under four Newcastle managers, each of them rating him as a great full-back, but age catches us all up, and with Aaron Hughes’ arrival, and with Andy Griffin at the club, I think this is a good move for both player and club.

Derby need his experience, and his influence on the club will be felt not just on the pitch, bit on the training pitch and the changing rooms. He’ll give everything to keep Derby up, and although they’ve a tough game against Spurs, I quite fancy Wal to provide big Les and co. a tough game.

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