BENFICA midfielder Luis Miguel has admitted he would love to play under Bobby Robson at Newcastle - and link up with his mate Hugo Viana.

The Magpies are eyeing £4m-rated Miguel, even though Benfica insist he is not for sale.

Viana, signed a fortnight ago from Sporting Lisbon for £8.5m, has played alongside Miguel in Portugal's Under-21 side.

"I know Hugo very well and, of course, I would love to play in the same side as him,'' said Miguel, 22.

"He's a great player and it would fill me with pride to be in the same team as him.

"Bobby Robson is a coach with great qualities and all the players speak well of him. I know he is an excellent man-manager.''

Viana, 19, has been crowned European Young Player of the Year by Italy's Serie A coaches at a ceremony in Sardinia.

He said: "This year has been really special for me, making the Portuguese squad for the World Cup, signing for Newcastle and now this award.

"I can't wait to report for training, meet my teammates and prepare for a new season in the Premier League, and hopefully Champions' League football.''

l Newcastle have confirmed the itinerary for their pre-season training camp in Holland.

The matches are: July 20 v FC Capelle (6pm); July 22 v De Tubanters Enschede (7pm); July 24 v GVVV Veenendaal (7pm); July 26 v UDI '19 Beter Ben (7pm).

l French flop Lilian Laslandes is returning to Sunderland for the start of pre-season training next week.

The transfer-listed striker was loaned to Colgone midway through last season after his £3.6m move to the Stadium of Light from Bordeaux turned sour.

Laslandes, who faces a court appearance on Monday on a drink driving charge, is still seeking a permanent switch.

But his agent, Philippe Flavier, said: "There have been no offers at this stage for Lilian.

"He still has a contract with Sunderland and he will be back next week for training and to appear in court because of his driving allegations.

"I am still confident an interesting club will come in for Lilian.

"But, until that happens, he will give everything for Sunderland.''

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