Fortune Quashes Toon Links

By David Hobbs
June 24 2005

Quinton Fortune has rubbished talks about leaving Old Trafford in favour of joining Graeme Souness' Newcastle United, stating he's happy to remain a Red Devil.

The South African international midfielder sees himself as a first-team player and not just a back-up player, but will work hard next season to cement a permanent place in the starting XI.

Regarding the link, he said: "I have heard about this - but it is just speculation.

"I see myself as a first-teamer," he added.

"You have to see yourself that way. And a club like United need lots of players that see themselves that way, even if some of the team are not always in the first XI.

"The competition is huge over there and you give absolutely everything just to stay in the first team.

"There's times you sit on the bench and ask yourself: 'What's happening to my life?' You have to realise that it is very difficult.

Sir Alex Ferguson is unsure where Fortune's best position is and has tried him at both full-back and on the wing, but the player himself sees himself as more of a central player. "I would prefer to play centre midfield," he continued. "I feel more complete there.

"I get more of the ball and can be more creative.

"But every time I pull on a United shirt, I have to check it's me, Quinton, playing for Manchester United!" he quipped.

David Hobbs - Webmaster
[david@manutdweb.com]