Archive
Janmaat Calls For Home Comforts
Written by Newcastle Utd
Daryl Janmaat wants to improve United's home form and make St. James' Park a fortress
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Daryl Janmaat insists Newcastle United must turn St. James' Park back into the fortress he heard so much about, as the Dutch defender approaches a year on Tyneside.
Netherlands international Janmaat was arguably the Magpies' player of the season in the 2014/15 campaign, with his all-action displays and rampaging runs from right-back a bright light in an otherwise disappointing term.
When he arrived from Feyenoord last July on the back of an impressive showing at the World Cup, Janmaat was well aware of the 52,000-seater stadium that Newcastle call home, as well as the atmosphere that can be created on matchday.
But with home victories few and far between last season, it took until the final day's crucial triumph against West Ham for the 25-year-old to truly experience that.
And Janmaat told nufc.co.uk: "We have to give the fans more excitement and more wins next season.
"They were brilliant (on the final day against West Ham). Before I signed, I heard all about the supporters and the noise inside the stadium - and on that day I got to really experience it.
"We have to make St. James' Park a place that is not nice for opponents to come. It is such a fantastic stadium but by winning more games at home the atmosphere will get better and that will help everybody.
"There are lots of things already in place for this Club to be a big one in the Premier League again. That is why I am so happy that we managed to stay up. Now, this season we have a chance to push on and have a much better season."
Despite United only escaping relegation on the final day of the season, Janmaat insists he has no regrets about his switch to the North-East, and is keen to push on this season and help drive the Club up the top flight table.
"I have enjoyed playing in the Premier League," he continued.
"This is where I want to be and signing for Newcastle was definitely the right decision.
"I have learnt a lot over the past year, I have played almost every game in the league and have really enjoyed it. I believe in myself and knew I could play over here and at this level, so it wasn't a surprise.
"I have great drive and knew I could be a good extra weapon on the right-hand side for Newcastle, but next season I want to improve and become an even better player. If I can do that, then I believe Newcastle can have a good season as well."