 NEWCASTLE will not be swayed from their bid to bring top British talent to the BBL despite getting their fingers burnt by rebel Richard Midgley. In an exclusive interview with Eagle Eye, Newcastle chief Paul Blake insisted he had no regrets bringing the Team GB guard to Tyneside. And despite Midgley’s shock defection to the Eagles’ Trophy rivals Everton this month, a bullish Blake is ready to add more homegrown quality to his Metro Radio Arena roster. “What we’re all about is proving to young British guys that there is life outside Europe,” he said. “Too many of them do their stint at college in America and jump on a plane to the continent without even considering what we’ve got going on here. “We want to open their eyes to the fact that the BBL is moving forward as a league and that there are some great opportunities here. “On the other side of the coin we have to prove to the powers that be that there are talented British guys out there and that it is worth investing in the sport in this country.” Newcastle always knew Midgley’s commitment to the Eagles was short term. But nobody imagined he would move to Merseyside. “Look, I am disappointed he left us so soon,” added Blake. “But I said it at the time and I stick by this – I am genuinely pleased he is still in the BBL. “I look at the bigger picture and as the league chairman I want to see British guys playing in Britain. “That’s what it’s all about and that’s why I would love to bring another homegrown player in to replace Richard at Newcastle.” Newcastle are undefeated since losing Midgley and the exit of a clearly unsettled player appears to have strengthened the bond between those players he left behind. A place in next month’s BBL Cup final against Milton Keynes was achieved against all odds, and Blake believes that backs-to-the-wall display typified the determination within a close-knit camp. “We are all about winning as a team and if you don’t buy into that then you don’t belong here,” he added. “We beat the Rocks in the semi- final with six senior players – but the guys who are with us now believe in what we’re doing and buy into the team ethos. “Now it is my job to find another player who is equally committed to the cause.” Newcastle maintained their post-Midgley revival with a thumping 109-86 victory against Birmingham on Friday night to regain joint leadership of the BBL Championship. And that big win was on the back of an historic TRIPLE double from veteran forward Charles Smith who rolled back the years to deliver a masterclass in top class hoops. On a night which truly belonged to the big American, Smith: l BAGGED 24 points l GRABBED 17 boards l AND dished 10 assists! And Blake added: “Charles is just the sort of guy I’ve been talking about. He’s been here a long time, loves Newcastle and respects his team-mates.” | 
