Sylvain Marveaux has revealed that he is excited ahead of his first Premier League campaign with Newcastle.
New Toon signing can 'taste the passion of the Geordie people'
Sylvain Marveaux has revealed that he is excited ahead of his first Premier League campaign with Newcastle.
The flying winger is hopeful he can reignite Alan Pardew's French revolution at St James' Park following the signings of his fellow countryman Yohan Cabaye and French-born Senegal international Demba Ba over the summer.
He will join the duo along with fellow Frenchman Hatem Ben Arfa, who is on his way back after breaking his leg last term.
Marveaux joined the club on a free transfer from Rennes and now he is straining at the leash to make his United bow and has set his sights on claiming a European spot next season.
He is likely to get a run out at Darlington next Friday night in the Magpies' first pre-season match.
Work
And the new signing told the
Chronicle: "We know there is a lot of work to do before we think about Europe, but we are keen to get something started this season and the French players are all determined to be involved in that.
"I have spoken with the manager a lot.
"From what he says about the way the team will play I think I can ignite the supporters.
"The club wants to do very big things and achieve success, which is why I came here.
"I came here with the idea of playing in Europe. That's certainly what the long-term vision is."
He added: "I know Hatem well, and I know Yohan and Demba Ba a little bit from even before I came here.
"It is good that we can all communicate and speak French but we will be communicating in English as well.
"We are working towards that and trying to get the right blend, that's what we are looking ahead to.
"What you have to remember is there are already a lot of good players in the team already. That can only bode well for us going forward.
Passion
The 25-year-old has enjoyed his first week in training and admits he is rapidly falling in love with Newcastle itself and especially the local people.
He said: "I love it here, the people are very friendly too.
"I have only been here a short time but I have been around the city and you can almost taste the passion of the Geordie people.
"It is similar in size to Rennes.
"But you can anticipate what the fans want from their team and I am looking forward to being part of it."
