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A New Challenge For Anita
Written by Newcastle Utd
Vurnon Anita explains why he's moved to Newcastle after a trophy-laden time at Ajax - and reveals what position he aims to play
By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter
Fresh from winning the Dutch title in each of the last two seasons, Newcastle new boy Vurnon Anita is excited at the prospect of a new challenge in the Barclays Premier League.
And having tasted success in most of Holland's major competitions during his time at Ajax, the 23-year-old - who will take the number eight shirt after signing from Ajax on Thursday morning - now hopes to challenge for silverware on Tyneside.
In an exclusive first interview with nufc.co.uk, the three-times capped Oranje international also revealed how Tim Krul helped to convince him to join the Magpies - and confirmed his favourite position.
During eight seasons in the first-team at Ajax, Anita lifted the Eredivisie title and the Dutch Super Cup twice plus the Dutch Cup on three occasions, as well as playing in the Champions League and Europa League.
He said: "I won almost everything in Holland so the step was not difficult to make. Now I think we can also win trophies with Newcastle and it's time to do that.
"In the Premier League especially, every game is tough so it can help me also to grow in my football skills."
Anita was a product of the Amsterdam club's famous Academy system, and was scouted as a nine-year-old. So moving to not only a new club but also a new country was a big decision for the Willemstad-born ace.
"Yes of course," he admitted. "They made me who I am right now. I've been there 13 years so it was a difficult step, but you know in football that things happen so I'm glad to be here."
He spoke to countryman Krul, who he has played alongside at various levels for Holland, about what to expect at the club - and said the goalkeeper sold the club to him well.
"Very well." he smiled. "He told me to join Newcastle, and said it was a very nice club with great supporters and everything is nice and that he would like me to come here.
"I trust him so I think we can have a nice time here."
Before signing a five-year contract with United, versatile Anita also spoke to Alan Pardew and John Carver about his role in the side.
"I talked to the manager and the coach and they know that I want to play in a defensive midfield place and that's why they brought me here," he said.
"But I can play at left-back or right-back, so that's also no problem."
Look out for an in-depth interview with Vurnon Anita on nufcTV later this afternoon