By Craig Hope

MIKE Williamson is quick to acknowledge the role Watford played in helping to earn his big move to Newcastle United, but says there will be no room for sentiment when the two sides lock horns at Vicarage Road on Saturday.

The 26-year-old actually started this season with The Hornets and netted twice from six outings before signing for Premier League Portsmouth in September.

However, as the South Coast club's financial situation worsened, Williamson's frustrations grew and in January he swapped Fratton Park for St.James' Park without having kicked a competitive ball for Pompey.

But it was during his eight-month stay with Watford that the Stoke-born defender first came to the attention of The Magpies.

And Williamson is grateful to the Hertfordshire club for giving him the platform to shine after four years in League One with Wycombe Wanderers.

"I owe Watford a lot," said the 6ft 4ins centre-back.

"They gave me the chance to make the next step into the Championship, and prove that I'm comfortable playing at this level.

"I'll always be grateful for that.

"I had a great time there, and I've got a lot of close friends there that I still speak to.

"I wish them all the best, but this is the one day when I'll put that to one side to go into battle.

"They're doing well at the minute, but it's the one day I'll put those friendships to one side and do whatever I can to get three points for Newcastle.

"Hopefully I will get a good reception but, as I say, the vital thing is getting three points for my new club."