Shola Ameobi has said Newcastle United’s thrilling comeback at Club Brugge proves they can match any team in the Europa League.
The long-serving striker, who has bagged a first-ever call-up by Nigeria, and younger sibling Sammy made history by becoming the first brothers to start a game for Newcastle in 60 years.
Ameobi senior also nudged a little bit closer to Alan Shearer in the all-time European scorers list after grabbing his 14th goal in the continental competition.
“We thought we had started off comfortably but then we gave away two sloppy goals,” Ameobi told The Chronicle.
“It was disappointing. Having not conceded in the group stages all year, we wanted to keep that run going, but it just shows the fighting spirit we have here.
“We were down but not out and that is what this team is all about.”
Ameobi’s equaliser – laid on by his little brother Sammy – ensured ‘The Magpies’ went in level at half-time.
He added: “We knew the game was still there for us.
“They did not have much possession so we knew we could get at them.
“We were confident we could get back in the game.
“Vurnon scored a fantastic goal. That gave us a lift.”
Ameobi’s equaliser, though, sent the Geordie fans into raptures and
looking back on it he said: “To pop up and score the equaliser before
half-time was a bonus.
“It was fantastic. The second half was anybody’s game.
“Both sides wanted to win it. It was quite a good game.
“We did not get the win but we will take the point.”