No going back for Solano

Nolberto Solano has handed Newcastle manager Graeme Souness a timely boost by confirming he has no intention of coming out of international retirement.

Solano left Newcastle for Aston Villa in January 2004 after several rows with then Magpies boss Sir Bobby Robson over his commitments with Peru.

But a goalless draw against Uruguay, which severely diminished the South American nation’s chances of making Germany 2006, convinced Solano to retire from the international game in June 2005.

A move back to St James’ Park followed and confirmation that Solano will not be resuming his Peru career will be welcomed by Souness, who is under serious pressure following a poor run of results.

Solano told Radio Programas in Peru: “Saying this is painful because it is very difficult for me to take this decision but I won’t change my mind.

“I’d love to say something different but I won’t.”

Peru finished second from bottom in the South American standings but the 31-year-old believes the team’s failings have not been recognised by the Peruvian Football Federation (FPF).

He added: “This elimination seemed not to be a lesson.

“There are no ambitions nor clear goals. Football is based on organisation and union of all the elements, something that is not working in Peru.

“It’s impossible to achieve a goal, the national team must depend on the whole group and not only on some of them.”