Habib puts toon first

It's been quite widely reported that Habib Beye missed his country's friendly against Libya due to the achilles problem that has plagued his pre-season. If indeed Beye missed the game to concentrate on Newcastle's home game against Bolton then it is a show of great loyalty to his employers and fans. Our sources tell us that Beye's injury is currently being treated by the club's medical team with injections regularly before games. It's not clear whether this is simply putting off the need for a rest or if the treatment will allow Habib to heal as he plays (the latter of which sounds unlikely to us).

Putting club before country and playing through the pain barrier are admirable attributes. Beye's commitment is probably just one of the reasons why he has been named the Newcastle United Disabled Supporters Association Player of the Season (2007/08).