Source: Northern_Echo
Tiote signs six-and-a-half year deal with Magpies
NEWCASTLE midfielder Cheik Tiote has signed a new six-and-a-half year contract with Newcastle United.[LNB] The deal, which commits the Ivory Coast international to St James' Park until 2017, follows his arrival from FC Twente last season.[LNB] Newcastle boss Alan Pardew said: "Cheik has been immense for us this season and is exactly the type of player I want in my squad. He is fantastic on the pitch and in the changing room and is vital for everything we want to achieve.[LNB] "Cheik offers us strength and presence in midfield and has proved himself to be one of the best in his position in the Premier League.[LNB] "He's adapted brilliantly to the English game and I'm delighted he's signed a new deal with us today."[LNB] Tiote has impressed in his first season in England, and hit a stunning equalising goal for Newcastle when they fought back from 4-0 down to draw 4-4 with Arsenal at the start of February.[LNB] He and captain Kevin Nolan have become established in the centre of midfield, and Tiote is delighted to be staying at the club.[LNB] "I am very happy today to have signed this new deal with Newcastle United," he said.[LNB] "The experience of playing in the Premier League has been better than I ever hoped it could be.[LNB] "This is a great club and the fans have been brilliant - I have never known support like it."[LNB] * READ MORE ON TIOTE'S NEW CONTRACT IN TOMORROW'S NORTHERN ECHO *[LNB]
