Tiote eyes Newcastle return

Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote is looking to return to the squad against Manchester City on Saturday.

The Toon Army travel to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday and Tiote, who has missed the last two Premier League games with a knee injury, is hoping to be there.

But the midfielder also praised Danny Guthrie for his performances in the last two games and knows he may not get straight back into the starting line-up.

“It’s been very frustrating for me to have missed the last two games, especially as we have started the season so well,” Tiote told the Evening Chronicle.

“Danny came in and did a very good job, too. He fitted into the team so well.”

“It shows how good our squad is and also that even if I am fit, the manager has options to change the team around.”

The Ivory Coast international said Newcastle were relishing playing the league leaders on Saturday.

“Going to Manchester City is something we are looking forward to. I think it is our toughest game yet, but we are not afraid of the challenge,” Tiote said.

“They were incredible against Manchester United a few weeks ago and have been scoring a lot of goals, but we have the best defence in the league and we hope that will mean we can get a good result.”