Newcastle's Enrique reflects on working with Allardyce, Keegan

Newcastle United fullback Jose Enrique has been discussing his former managers.

“I had a bit of a hamstring problem at first and (Sam) Allardyce played N’Zogbia in my position,” recalled Enrique. “He scored a goal and made two assists in his first three games, so how could I complain?

“One of my brothers asked me why I wasn’t playing and I had to tell him because N’Zogbia has done so well.

“I couldn’t break into the team and had to wait. It was the end of September before I made my Premier League debut as a sub against West Ham.”

Next up was Kevin Keegan, hailed upon his arrival as The Messiah but to be driven out of the club through interference.

“He wanted me to lose weight,” said Jose. “Maybe a kilo would have been all right but I lost four kilos and that was too much. My game suffered.

“Now I am heavier than I was in Spain but that’s because I use the gym and do weights. I never did that before.

“I feel strong, but I’m still quick enough. I have learned a lot and the gym has unquestionably helped me.”