Solano happy to be back in the fold

NEWCASTLE midfielder Nolberto Solano has reaffirmed his commitment to the cause after being handed a challenge by Bobby Robson.

The 69-year-old was furious when his Peruvian international refused to have a pain-killing injection to allow him to play with a bruised toe at Southampton last weekend, and warned him he would have to fight for his place when he returned to full fitness.

But Solano answered his manager with an excellent display in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Fulham, scoring a superb first goal and contributing throughout to another good team performance as United climbed back into the top four.

The South American has spent much of the last two years at the centre of speculation he could leave Tyneside, with Robson in the past expressing frustration about his long absences on international duty.

However, despite links with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United, Solano is still at St James’ Park and committed to playing his role in a black-and-white revival.

“I’m happy here,” he said. “I’ve got four more years on my contract and I’m still happy. Playing in the Champions League is where I want to play.”

Solano’s display answered the questions posed by his manager, and he received warm applause as he left the pitch after being replaced by Shola Ameobi seven minutes from time and later from Robson.

“He might have known he could have been out of the side,” said the Newcastle manager.

“He didn’t travel last week. Jermaine Jenas came in and didn’t let us down, and I don’t like leaving JJ out of the side. He’s basically too good to be out of the side.

Victory at struggling Bolton on St Stephen’s Day would leave them very much in contention for a repeat of last season’s top-four finish.