MIKE Newell has been here a week or so now, but the new manager is still getting to know all the players and staff at the club. No doubt it will take time for him to assess us all as both players and people.

He doesn't want to change things a great deal, but in time he will bring his own style to the team. Supporters and players have to give him the time to do his thing and he will need all the help and encouragement he can get.

On a lighter note, he has been joining in training with the lads and has been scoring quite a few goals - and enjoying them as well. You can see he has played at the highest level and learnt from playing with the best in the business.

Speaking of one of the best in the business, it's been great to see Gordon Watson training. Flash has been working with physio John Murray and this means he is on his way back, which will be a huge boost to the squad and fans as we come up to a busy period over Christmas and the New Year.

We were all disappointed with our FA Cup exit against Southend last week, but it gives us all a free weekend to have a rest for all the games which are coming up. In the long run it might be a blessing in disguise being able to recharge our batteries for a big push over Christmas. I'm sure our supporters will be delighted to spend the free week doing all their Christmas shopping!

Mind you, I've got an extra week off as I'm suspended for the game at Rochdale on December 14 after being booked for the fifth time this season.

Newcastle's game with Inter Milan last week was entertaining to say the least. No player wants to be sent off and let his teammates down but sometimes, in the heat of the moment, you do things which you wish you hadn't. I'm sure Craig Bellamy will learn from his mistake this time. Look at his response on Sunday against Everton - that says it all.