Newcastle defender Santon had Roma option

Davide Santon could have ended up a Roma player, but instead chose to join Newcastle and move to the Premier League. The highly rated full back has yet to make his first appearance for the Toon.

Santon joined Newcastle as part of a 4m GBP deal last month.

The full back is very highly rated in Italy, and he could have stayed in his homeland at Roma but instead chose to join Newcastle at the last minute.

"There was a moment when I was very close to Roma, but nothing happened, and in the end I chose to move to England," declared the Italian right back.

"I did not have talks with anyone, but I know [Roma sporting director Walter] Sabatini wanted me. But, the deal was not concluded and so I went to Newcastle. I am happy there."