Remy Ready To Be A Local Hero

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

As Rémy Cabella finished posing for photographs in the St. James' Park tunnel, Newcastle United's latest recruit studied his new surroundings.

"Qu'est ce que ca veut dire 'howay the lads'?" he asked, looking above his head to where a black and white scarf had just been held aloft.

The attacking midfielder may have been on Tyneside for a matter of hours, but already he was intent on integrating with the Geordie ways.

A brief explanation later and Cabella was in the local groove, even signing his first couple of shirts with the Magpies' famous phrase.

"I understand its meaning now," he told nufc.co.uk.

"Every football club has its own signature and its own saying, and 'howay the lads' is Newcastle's.

"It is important for me, as a new player, to get to know things like this about the Club.

"I want to learn as much as I can and I look forward to finding out a lot more."

Another thing the 24-year-old is relishing is the opening weekend of the 2014/15 season, when a packed St. James' Park will see Newcastle take on Barclays Premier League champions Manchester City.

Cabella had a look around the famous stadium before completing the formalities on his six-year contract, and cannot wait to see it full.

"It is a magnificent place," proclaimed the French international.

"I have seen lots of photographs of the supporters and the black and white strip, but you cannot see the ambience in photos and that is something I am really looking forward to experiencing.

"I have heard nothing but good things about Newcastle United from everyone I spoke to.

"I wanted to join a great English club and that is why I have arrived here. I'm looking forward to pulling on the shirt and playing in this magnificent stadium, and I will give this Club my maximum."

Newcastle United season tickets for the 2014/15 campaign are now on sale. To secure your seat at St. James' Park, click here.