FORMER Newcastle striker Ian Rush expects Graeme Souness to have learned from his past mistakes when he embarks on the latest stage of his managerial life at St James' Park.

Souness is currently enjoying a week's 'gardening leave' before taking control of the Magpies next Monday.

Rush played alongside the Scotsman in the early 1980s as Liverpool romped to both domestic and European success.

And, after recently starting his own managerial career at League Two strugglers Chester City, the former Wales international insisted Souness was the right choice despite his recent struggles at Ewood Park.

"Graeme's done a great job for Blackburn but he's decided to go to Newcastle because it's a huge challenge," said Rush, who scored two goals in 14 appearances for the Magpies towards the end of his illustrious playing career.

"I don't think it's a bad appointment for either party - Freddy Shepherd has made the right choice. Graeme is a winner. As a player he was a winner and he's won trophies as a manager too.

"Everyone knows he's made mistakes but, speaking to him, he's well aware of that and perhaps he'll be looking to do things a little differently at Newcastle."

Rush's time on Tyneside might have been brief, but he made enough appearances to appreciate the strength of the bond between the club and its fans.

The initial reaction to Souness' appointment has been lukewarm, but Rush is confident his former team-mate will quickly get the fans on his side.

"Once he takes over the Newcastle fans will be desperate for him to do well," said Rush. "And they'll give Graeme every chance to be a successful United boss.

"But they're not soft up there - they know what they want. Hopefully Graeme will give them that.

"He has worked for some of the most demanding clubs in Europe and he knows what to expect at Newcastle."

l Newcastle defender Andy O'Brien admitted his surprised at the appointment of Souness.

"I was shocked last Monday when Sir Bobby left and I'm equally shocked now," said O'Brien, who is on international duty with Ireland.

"I know Graeme hadn't been mentioned in the papers, and Terry Venables seemed popular with the media, but clearly the board managed to keep it a secret for a while.

"We're all glad now the decision has been made, and without a doubt he is a name who will satisfy the supporters.

"He has managed some great clubs, was a great player and everybody is looking forward to working under him after the Blackburn game.

"This is a big club, well supported and hopefully we'll be moving up the league sooner rather than later.''

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