LEE`S LUCKY SEVEN

Until a year ago, Robert Lee had become the forgotten man of Newcastle United. During Ruud Gullit’s turbulent tenure, the veteran midfielder was stripped of the coveted number seven shirt and relegated to playing in the reserves.

But Bobby Robson’s arrival at St James’s Park in September 1999 provided Lee with renewed hope, and it is testament to his character that the Magpies are set to extend his current contract.

Following a solid season in the Newcastle midfield, Robson feels that Lee has earned his reward, stating: "We appreciate what he did for us last year, and he deserves the number seven shirt again – until such a time as somebody else will take it from him."

The former England international was an influential figure in his 30 league appearances during the 1999-2000 campaign, stamping his authority on the midfield. Composed in possession, Lee sprayed the ball around – attempting over 1,500 passes – finding a black and white shirt with 80% of his distribution.

He proved his quality in the defensive third of the pitch by completing 84 blocks, clearances and interceptions and was committed in the challenge, attempting 98 tackles – although he will have been disappointed at winning only 53% which was slightly below the Premiership average for a midfielder. The former Charlton man once again demonstrated that he has a cool head on experienced shoulders as he picked up just five bookings despite being involved in many physical battles.

Not renowned for his attacking prowess, Lee failed to get on the scoresheet last season, but managed to fire 29 shots goalbound – seven of which tested the ‘keeper. He was industrious in his running, embarking upon 60 dribbles and runs recording an impressive 85% success rate – 5 percentage points greater than the average for a player in his position.

He also displayed above average crossing ability for a midfielder, whipping over 50 centres and finding a team-mate with 40% of his deliveries. His attacking persistence resulted in the 34-year-old directly creating one goal for the Geordie side.

If he accepts the renewed contract offer, then that will take Lee into his tenth year at St James’s Park and he would be rewarded with a testimonial. That would prove a fitting tribute to a dependable servant who has weathered the storm in an age of increasing disloyalty.