Hugo Viana in impressive form, Newcastle

Newcastle are poised to bring back year long loan out Hugo Viana. Former Benfica coach Graeme Souness has been monitoring his progress, which has been considerable indeed as he has retuned for this season to his previous club, Sporting Lisbon on loan. His form more than merits a return and Sporting are bobbing at the top of the table.

Last night against Feyenoord in the UEFA Cup he was man of the match, alongside Brazilian striker Liedson. Viana was ever present in midfield and looked very confident in his distribution, shot and freedom. He really flourishes when is given the open role behind strikers, something that for whatever reason didn’t happen under Robson.

He was demanding at Newcastle, hints of Bellamy there, and that needs sorting out, but the other thing he needs to do is sort out his number. 45 is the number of an NFL running back, or a backup center in the NBA. He needs a footballer’s number because he looks like some kid called up from the youth side with that number.