The injuries from last season are now in the past for Andreas Christensen and he has a lot of desire coming into his fourth season at Barça, both on a personal level and as part of a group that is again eager to win the Champions League.

The atmosphere in St James' Park

The Dane sat down before the press in the run-up to the game against Newcastle, and on knowing the atmosphere from his time at Chelsea, he said "it's one of the best, if not the best" before going on to say "we have to be very focused, it's something that they feed on for a big part of the game."

However, he tried to play it down to some extent, stating "We have to play our game and believe in our qualities". The centre back went on to weigh up the season ahead, putting last season to one side, and emphasising that physically speaking he feels "very good" and that the "physios are doing a great job", before adding "the team is in good shape and ready to rumble."

More than ready

He is fully aware of the competition in this position, but at the same time, Iñigo leaving has opened up more possibilities. In his understated manner as a team player Christensen commented that "everyone at the moment is playing well" and "it's about being ready when you're called upon."

Champions League the goal

The Champions League was the thorn in the side of last season and the desire is burning bright as Christensen commented "I think it's special every season" but mentioned that he thinks "we are more hungry because of the way it ended last season, almost reaching the final. He also added that "it's a big goal for this season." This team wants to win everything and the first step is at St James' Park.

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