Republic of Ireland international Damien Duff was a steal for Newcastle at $9.2 million; the Magpies are receiving a winger of the highest quality who will be arriving at the club at the peak of his
career. While Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho emphasized he was sad to let such a talented player go, he admits he couldn't guarantee him automatic selection in the first team. At Newcastle, Duff knows
he will not only be guaranteed a spot, but he will likely become the go-to man in midfield, and should be an exciting link-up player for Michael Owen down the left as soon as the England star regains
full fitness. Duff says he followed his heart in choosing Newcastle over Liverpool and Tottenham. He was both frank and professional in asking for a transfer from Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon:
"I was as honest as the day is long with [Peter Kenyon]. I said, 'I know I'm not guaranteed a place, and I'm not asking for that, but I have to play football'." Duff said he wasn't satisfied winning
trophies from the sidelines and wanted to become a "hero" for the Newcastle faithful. He said he aims to help bring Newcastle within touching distance of the Champions League this season. Newcastle
boss Glenn Roeder is also said to be on the lookout for another striker following Alan Shearer's retirement and Owen's long-term injury. Top of his list are Werder Bremen's Miroslav Klose, West Ham's
Dean Asthon and Dutch striker Dirk Kuyt, also a Liverpool target.
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