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De Jong Eyes Change Of Fortunes
Written by Newcastle Utd
After a frustrating first half of the season in Germany, new signing Luuk de Jong is hoping for a change of fortunes on Tyneside
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Luuk de Jong cannot wait to lace his boots up again on a regular basis, as he relishes the prospect of a Tyne-Wear derby debut.
On Wednesday the Dutch international striker signed for Newcastle on loan until the end of the season, with the option of making the switch permanent.
Twenty-three-year-old de Jong has cut a frustrated figure this term at parent club Borussia Monchengladbach, restricted to a substitutes' role and just 85 minutes of football.
But he hopes that switching to St. James' Park can provide a kick-start to his campaign.
"I'm really motivated," de Jong told nufcTV in an exclusive interview.
"The first half of the season hasn't been nice for me because I didn't play much.
"I just want to show my talent, score goals and be successful again. That is why I'm here.
"My goalscoring record in Holland was very good and hopefully I can show that here."
De Jong could be handed his debut on Saturday as Sunderland come to town.
And while he may new to the region and new to English football, the front man is well aware of just how intense the local rivalry is between the sides and what is at stake.
"A lot of people have already told me about the game and what it's all about," he revealed.
"I know how big it is and I love playing in these massive matches. That is why I became a footballer.
"It's always nice to be involved in a game like that and I would love to play a part.
"We have to win it because otherwise I know we cannot walk around the streets of Newcastle!"
To watch Luuk de Jong's full exclusive nufcTV interview, click here.