I'll speak up if needed but I'm not here to be a cheerleader, I want to play

DAN'S BURNING AMBITION

- By Andy Dunn

WEMBLEY winner and England new boy Dan Burn has spent the past few days pinching himself to make sure the latest chapters in his football career are true.

But that will not mean he will be reluctant to get vocal with his big-name international team-mates.

Asked if his leadership qualities would prompt him to have a go at Harry Kane or Jude Bellingham if he thought it was needed, Burn smiled and said: "Absolutely. I've got no problem with that."

Burn, who scored Newcastle's opening goal in their 2-1 win over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday at Wembley, gave a fascinating insight into how he has built up those leadership qualities.

The 32-year-old defender said: "Sometimes, people don't want to speak up because they find it a bit embarrassing.

"I love the NFL and I feel like they're really good at it. They are not bothered.

"If they feel something is going to help the group they'll get up and say it.

"I feel that's something English football in general could learn from.