Just what was the big fuss surrounding Junior Hoilett two years ago? In the summer of 2012, following a half-decent season for Blackburn Rovers - although the club were still relegated - the 22 year old Canadian winger was instantly linked with a host of Premier League clubs. Alan Pardew, who was still putting the final polish on his Manager of the Year award, was eager to add some new recruits ahead of Newcastles Europa League campaign, and had the out-of-contract Blackburn winger very much in his sights.
''It seems like there is an imminence to him moving, wherever he ends up. We are keeping a close eye on that because he is a good player. - Alan Pardew, July 2012.
With a move to German side Borussia Monchengladbach having fallen through, Newcastle were eager to snap up the free agent, only to be put off by his £50,000 p/wk demands. QPR subsequently forked out for the pricy winger, where he has flattered to deceive. A successive relegation would immediately follow for the unlucky Canadian, before he struggled with form in the Championship as the Hoops made hard work of their return to the top-flight. Newcastles alternative in Gabriel Obertan may not have fared much better, on the other hand.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
