CHN Links: Friday Edition

Good morning, Toon Army. It wouldn't be Friday if there weren't speculation about selection. That and more after the jump.

Whoever thought this was a good idea should be sacked.

Articles everywhere today about Alan Shearer's recent revelation that he thought he was going to get the manager's job last summer. Here is a straightforward news piece from The Guardian.

Chris Hughton is "amused" about the recent reports that Tottenham Hotspur are seeking after Andy Carroll's services, according to The Mirror. I haven't linked to these rumors before because (A)The transfer window is closed. So much is going to happen between now and January that it's not even worth paying attention to rumors at this point. (B)Of course there's no way Hughton is going to let Carroll go. Hootie's quote here confirms it. Surely this story can die now.

According to Lee Ryder of The Chronicle, Chris Hughton hasn't received any special visits from players this week wanting to talk about their position with the club. I think this is a very good sign. It shows that the players trust Hughton and that there isn't a lot of question about each person's place on the team. Also, I believe it shows a willingness on behalf of the players to do what it takes to win - there aren't a lot of prima donnas on this team whining about playing time.

Jonas Gutierrez made his case to Lee Ryder that he can play with Hatem Ben Arfa and not just get replaced by him. If those two are both in good form, that's a dangerous attacking midfield.

Paul Fraser of The Northern Echo interviewed Mike Williamson, who of course expressed his desire to keep his starting spot. Within the article is a nice quote from Willo about Chris Hughton's levelheadedness benefiting the club.

James Perch insisted to BBC Sports that he is not a dirty player, despite his four yellows in four matches. Don't worry, James. Nobody is confusing you with Lee Cattermole or any of the Wolves players.

Finally, Everton midfielder Tim Cahill says his side is not underestimating Newcastle, according to Andrew Slevison of Tribal Football. Seems like we see one of these stories every week; just switch out the name of the team and player. The regularity of this story tells me that there are plenty of people still underestimating this team. Can't wait for that song and dance to go away.