Calling the pitch doctor

Last updated : 14 February 2006 By Paul Farrington
Paul Jewell: Unhappy with the pitch
The pitch was relayed before Christmas but is already as bad as it was previously.

The pitch is far too muddy and rips up before the game kicks off. This has frustrated the players and mamager Paul Jewell.

PJ said: "I spoke with Rafa Benitez and we agreed that you couldn't play football on that pitch.

"I'm not saying we are the best footballing side in the world, but we do like to move the ball around quickly.

"With the pitch the way it was, it really was hit and hope. It's not the groundsman's fault, it's down to nature.

"The rugby starts soon on it, so God knows what it is going to be like then because grass doesn't grow in this weather.

"I think they are bringing the people who relaid it back in and hopefully we can see some kind of improvement soon.

"There are two rugby games before we host Manchester United at the beginning of March.

"My biggest concern is injuries – if your standing leg goes when you kick the ball, it could be a big worry.

"Against Liverpool, you could see players' feet giving way. It was great after it was relaid but at the moment it is causing a concern."

As a result, the pitch doctors are being called in to try and get the playing surface sorted for the game with Manchester United in early March.

Midfielder Graham Kavanagh added: "It's sapping on the legs and there are divots everywhere, so it's difficult to play decent football.

"It's not like it's a quagmire which you have to slog through, but if you try to turn, the turf seems to come up and give way.

"It's very difficult judging your passing and keeping the momentum of the ball.

"At the moment it's probably more enjoyable playing away and the pitch at Tottenham on Sunday will be like a bowling green."