Wolves v Newcastle: Defender Grant Hanley revels in Magpies' lack of egos

Defender Grant Hanley says there is one thing missing from Newcastle United's dressing room '“ an ego!
Newcastle defender Grant Hanley battles against Wolves earlier in the seasonNewcastle defender Grant Hanley battles against Wolves earlier in the season
Newcastle defender Grant Hanley battles against Wolves earlier in the season

Newcastle lead the Championship by a point ahead of tomorrow’s 5.30pm kick-off at Wolves, who are seeking a league double against the Magpies.

Scotland cap Hanley, signed from Blackburn last summer, says the togetherness on and off the pitch is unlike anything he has experienced previously.

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“It’s brilliant,” said the 25-year-old. “It’s something I’ve not experienced before, because I’ve always been at the other end of the table.

“The atmosphere’s always good, and that’s credit to the lads. Everybody’s pulling in the same direction. There are no egos in the dressing room. There’s no negativity there.

“There have been times in the season when it’s been a bit sticky for us, and the lads have stuck together and got through it. I think that’s important as well. “

Championship veteran Hanley believes the Tynesiders’ ability to come through “sticky patches” bodes well for the remaining months of the Championship campaign.

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“You’ve got to limit the number of sticky patches you have,” said the 25-year-old. “If you do have one, you’ve got to get over it quickly. The characters in the dressing room certainly make sure of that.”

Meanwhile, Magpie midfielder Cheick Tiote yesterday completed his £500,000 move to Beijing Enterprises, signing a two-year deal at the Chinese second division side.

The 30-year-old had been in his seventh season at Newcastle, having joined the club from Twente in 2010. Tiote made 156 appearances, and scored one goal, for Newcastle.

l QPR are exploring the possibility of building a new ground on the site of Thames Valley Harriers’ Linford Christie Stadium at Wormwood Scrubs in London.