This morning's news is highlighted by Newcastle posting a profit, news that will surely make Mike Ashley supporters (all 4 of them) very happy indeed. Also, we've got another contract extension, news on a major injury, a reserve derby to think about, an Arsenal injury report, and more. "It's British, sir."
Newcastle United buck Premier League trend by posting profit as Mike Ashley's club perform on and off field | Telegraph
The FCB continues to march his club toward financial stability. Even the most staunch of Ashley detractors will be forced to admit that The Plan is working wonders for the club. Who could have predicted three years ago that Newcastle would bounce back from relegation (a huge financial drain for any club) and seriously compete for a spot in Europe, all the while turning a profit? FCB, indeed.
Follow the jump for more of the latest news and notes on Newcastle United.
Ryan Taylor signs two-year contract extension | ChronicleLive
In the last week, we've seen extensions given to Tim Krul, Fabricio Coloccini, and Ryan Taylor. It strikes me as funny that all three have commented on how easy and stress-free the process was, given the whining from the likes of Joey Barton, Kevin Nolan, and Jose Enrique this summer.
Lovenkrands blow for Magpies | Yahoo! Eurosport
Alan Pardew says Peter Lovenkrands has torn and maybe even ruptured his thigh (muscle, I assume). Sounds painful. Get well soon, Peter. We'll need you for cup matches in a few months.
Obertan given chance to shine in reserve derby | ChronicleLive
In case you hadn't heard, the reserves will take on the mackems later today (1900 GMT) at SDA. Expected to participate for the Toon are Gabriel Obertan, Mehdi Abeid, Dan Gosling, James Perch, Remie Streete, Michael Richardson, and others. Hopefully this one won't be as chippy.
Cardiff City to extend Haris Vuckic loan deal from Newcastle United | WalesOnline
Haris Vuckic's ill-timed loan has been extended. I just hope this doesn't turn into a Kazenga LuaLua situation where he falls in love with the club and opts to stay...especially because I like Vuckic a great deal more than LuaLua. Cardiff are currently just outside the top 6 in the Championship, so Haris should be playing meaningful football down the stretch.
Newcastle, Pardew and an unexpected hunt for a Champions League spot | Back Page Football
A nice, complimentary article about Newcastle's season and the reasons for their success.
Arsenal Injury News: Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain Should Be Fit For Newcastle | The Short Fuse
It looks like the Gunners will be full strength on Monday. Bring it on.
Tottenham Hotspur Vs. Stevenage, 2012 FA Cup: Spurs Through, Recover After Bad Start | Cartilage Free Captain
This is definitely a good thing. Newcastle need one of the top 4 to win this thing so that it will open up that 6th qualifying spot.
Newcastle fans offer to pay fine of jobless man who graffitied stadium | guardian.co.uk
Can't sum it up any better than chairman of the bench Adrian Hadden:
What you did was fairly stupid. You have caused criminal damage to a club which you say you support. I am not making any comment about the renaming of the stadium. You may have strong views on the matter, but what you did was a criminal act and I think you accept that.
North East duo eye Tykes star | Sky Sports
This rumor has Newcastle and Middlesbrough battling over 21 year-old injured midfielder Jacob Butterfield of Barnsley.
Newcastle Monitoring Situation of Tottenham Youngster | Footybunker
Another injured player rumored to be connected to Newcastle. This time it's 20 year-old defender Steven Caulker, currently on loan at Swansea City.