David Wheater insists he never considered signing for Newcastle United.
Teessider stopper wouldn't become a Geordie
David Wheater insists he never considered signing for Newcastle United.
The former Middlesbrough star joined Bolton in January, but at one stage he was strongly tipped with a move to Boro's North East rivals.
However, he insists it was never a realistic proposition as Bolton prepare to tackle Newcastle at St James' Park on Saturday.
"I would have been slaughtered if I had signed for Newcastle," he said.
Big rivalry
"There's big rivalry with Middlesbrough and Newcastle and I think of it as a local derby. The fans up there love their football, it's what they live for.
"I don't have any mates who support the Geordies - I wouldn't let them be!
"I'll get a bit of stick, but I like that, it's quite nice to get it sometimes."
Wheater has made a brilliant start to life with Bolton as he is yet to concede a goal whilst on the pitch.
"I thought I might be a bit homesick coming here, but it's been great. I love the area and the lads and staff have been superb," he said.
"I didn't expect to get into the team so quickly, but it is what I came here to do."
