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The versatility and skill of Nolberto Solano with Newcastle United

By Roy Emanuel

SUNDERLAND - APRIL 26: Nolberto Solano of Newcastle United holds his nerve to score the winning goal from the penalty spot during the FA Barclaycard Premiership match between Sunderland and Newcastle United held on April 26, 2003 at the Stadium of Light, in Sunderland, England. Newcastle United won the match 1-0. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
SUNDERLAND - APRIL 26: Nolberto Solano of Newcastle United holds his nerve to score the winning goal from the penalty spot during the FA Barclaycard Premiership match between Sunderland and Newcastle United held on April 26, 2003 at the Stadium of Light, in Sunderland, England. Newcastle United won the match 1-0. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /
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One of Newcastle United’s most exciting former players could impact all areas of the pitch.

Newcastle United’s current campaign has a focus on survival, as the club’s motivation for the final fixtures of the campaign will be all about avoiding relegation. Versatile players can be a major asset in that type of situation, and few Newcastle players fit that description quite like Nolberto Solano.

The Peruvian legend had two separate stints at St. James’ Park, and each featured him in different positions. The self-described “adopted Geordie” was a wide midfielder when he joined in 1998, and caused excitement almost anytime that he lined up a free-kick for the Toon.

When he returned to Newcastle in 2005 after a brief time away, Solano showed that his abilities as a right-back were just as impressive.

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Ambitious on the ball and possessing a hard-working attitude, he was an instant hit with the fans and gave the Toon Army plenty to shout about.

Disagreements led to time away from Tyneside, but when he was back it was that period that personified just how much of a special player he truly was.

There when your team needs you the most

Not every footballer responds well to a change of position, especially when it involves an attack-minded individual switching to a more defensive approach. However, when injuries hurt the squad, Solano was there to shine in a full-back role.

It is a characteristic that is not always celebrated, and it is an element that lacks a bit in today’s game. Players are so focused and trained in one area of the sport that they can lose that quality of just “playing”.

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Nobby Solano will always be a cult hero in the North East for Newcastle United. His goals and free-kicks were wonderful, though I will always think of his desire to see the team succeed no matter how it affected his own position.