Dyer desperate for Mac role
Kieron Dyer is determined to establish himself in Steve McClaren's starting XI.
Kieron Dyer is determined to establish himself in Steve McClaren's starting XI after making his international comeback for England on Wednesday night.The Newcastle star started his first game for the national side in nearly four years in the 1-0 friendly defeat to Spain, with the tie marking his return to international football following a dismal period of injuries.
However Dyer has now set his sights on becoming a regular fixture in McClaren's side as they look to qualify for Euro 2008.
"There is obviously a lot of competition for places in the England squad, but I want to rise to the challenge," Dyer told stellargroup.co.uk.
"I have spent so long on the sidelines, I am hungry. It makes you think when you are out injured for so long just what it all means to you.
"I went to the last World Cup as a fan, but I want to be at the next major championship as a player.
"There is no point just aiming to make an England squad and make up the numbers. You have got to want to break into the team, and that's my aim now."
Glenn Roeder was pleased to see Dyer play for his country after 18 months of injury frustration, but the Magpies boss admitted he was surprised to see his star man play the full match with Saturday's game against Liverpool looming large.
"I thought that overall, Kieron Dyer did very well. It was his first game for almost two years for England," said Roeder. "But I was surprised to see him play the full 90 minutes."
Rafa Benitez brings his third-placed side to St James' Park at the weekend and The Reds' travelling party is likely to include a familiar face in former Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy.
Saturday represents the Welsh international's first visit to Tyneside since his acrimonious departure in 2005 and Magpies defender Steven Taylor is wary his former team-mate will be desperate to prove a point.
"Craig left Newcastle on bad terms, and he will be looking to score a goal," said Taylor. "He will be fired up for this game and if he plays, we have to stop him.
"But it is not just about Craig Bellamy. No matter who Liverpool play up front, we have to deal with them."
