Clarky Wants Toon Rising Star

A host of Championship clubs - lead by former Toon midfielder Lee Clark - are ready to battle to sign Newcastle United midfielder Mehdi Abeid.

The 20-year-old Algerian midfielder joined Newcastle last summer and made his senior debut last season, starting games in both the FA Cup and League Cup.

But Abeid is now set to be sent on loan to gain league experience and a host of Championship clubs are keen.

Birmingham and Charlton are the first to show interest in snapping him up on loan.