Jack may have just done enough

Last updated : 21 July 2004 By The Chairman

Kelvin Jack may just have done enough in the Newcastle Town friendly game to earn himself a deal at Boundary Park. He will play for half the game again in Fridays visit of Leeds United after which a decision on his future will be made.

Brian Talbot said, “He's a big lad. He kicks it well and he commands his box quite well. He came and sorted out one or two things with a punch and he made a double save which was tremendous. To be fair he couldn't have done any more. He was professional, can command his box and he does the right thing by talking to his defenders. He helped us keep a clean sheet as well because they had two or three opportunities. He also made a tremendous double save and did everything we could have asked of him.”

“Overall his performance was fine and I hope to have another look at him on Friday along with Les. Most probably they'll play half each and then we've got to make a decision about him on Friday. I think one or two other clubs are watching him, but we are in the strongest position because Kelvin is with us for the rest of the week.”

If Jack signs he will join the growing list of International players at Boundary Park. Athletic already have three established Internationals in Chris Killen (New Zealand), Rodney Jack (St Vincent) and Jermaine Johnson (Jamaica). New centre-back Mark Arber has also recently earned his first call-up for South Africa.