Keegan clears up Smith stance

Magpies striker remains part of Keegan's plans

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 6th August 2008

Keegan clears up Smith stance

Smith: Rested

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Kevin Keegan has refuted suggestions that Alan Smith is set for a move to Premier League rivals Everton.

The Newcastle boss left the combative striker out of his squad for a friendly against Eredivisie champions PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday night.

That sparked speculation that the England international would soon be heading for the St James' Park exit door.

However, Keegan insists that he was merely resting Smith for their latest pre-season friendly and has no plans to sell the former Manchester United forward.

"With Alan - he's got a sore ankle," he said.

Risk

"I haven't risked anyone in this game and I knew when I left him out it would cause questions, but he's got a sore ankle and I can't treat him any different to anybody else.

"You saw me bringing players off every time they get a knock.

"Every time the doctors or the physios come to me and say, 'Habib Beye - 50 minutes is enough', I've stuck with that.

"I haven't risked anybody, which I think is right and it's given me a chance to give some other people a bit of time."