Bowyer gets green light to kick-off with Magpies

LEE BOWYER will begin the task of winning over his critics tomorrow when he reports for pre-season training with new club Newcastle.

The 26-year-old midfielder finally completed his move to St James' Park yesterday after successfully negotiating a medical on Monday night.

"Lee's looking forward to joining up with his new team-mates," his agent David Giess said. "He can't wait to get started.

"Lee hopes to make his debut in the Asia Cup. He's looking forward to the start of the Premiership season and hopefully another successful season of Champions League football."

His involvement in United's Champions League campaign should they make their way through the final qualifying round will be negligible, however, as he serves a six-match European ban for stamping on Malaga midfielder Gerardo during last season's UEFA Cup competition.

Gary Speed and Kieron Dyer remain the main engine room pairing, while Laurent Robert, Nolberto Solano, Jermaine Jenas and Hugo Viana have all played key roles for the club.

Solano's future remains uncertain amid another brewing club v country row, although the Peruvian insists he wants to stay at St James', while youngster Darren Ambrose will also be thrown into the mix.

Chilean Clarence Acuna has been told he is surplus to requirements, while Jamie McClen may have to move to get his chance.