Tiote commits future to Newcastle United ahead of Swansea clash
Yet to win a game in the Premier League season with manager Alan Pardew under increasing pressure, Newcastle United have at least had some good news after midfielder Cheick Tiote moved to reaffirm his commitment to the club.
The Ivory Coast international had looked to be heading for the St James’ Park exit after quotes attributed to the 28-year-old appeared to indicate he was keen to leave the club.
But in a new development that is likely to give the Newcastle United squad a significant boost ahead of a tough trip to Swansea, Tiote has moved to dismiss rumours he is planning to depart.
Speaking to the club’s official website, the former FC Twente star was keen to stress the quotes published, which stemmed from an interview given back in his homeland, were “not accurate”.
“Yes, there was some interest in me over the summer and that can be a bit distracting, but nothing came of it,” he said.
“I’m back to full fitness and only thinking about doing my best for the team. We are not in a good position in the league right now and I want to get us up to where we should be.
“I am as committed as I have ever been to Newcastle.”
The comments are a welcome boost for the Magpies, who have looked short of confidence on the road in the Premier League so far.
Newcastle have yet to find the net away from home in the top-flight this term with new signings like Emmanuel Riviere and Ayoze Perez yet to adapt to the demands of the division.
The latter of these two new arrivals could be in line for an appearance against the Swans, though there is unlikely to be any place for troubled loan signing Facundo Ferreyra, who has yet to feature in the Premier League.
One man looking to make his return to action for Newcastle in the near future, following a 17-month absence, is Ryan Taylor, with the winger/full-back recently appearing in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Carlisle.
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