Ivory Coast Star Could Light Up St James' Park!

Last updated : 25 August 2010 By Footy Mad - Editor

The Ivory Coast international is set to complete a £3m switch to the club later this week, having agreed terms and passed a medical at St James's Park.

Steve McClaren – Tiote's manager at Dutch title-winners FC Twente last season – is convinced his game will be suited to English football, having played a big part in his development at Twente.

Steve McClaren: "He was a very valuable member of my squad.

"However, in the Dutch system of football, he didn't get as many games as he deserved, and he'll be more suited to Premier League football.

"He's a very strong and athletic player. He's a natural ball winner, and he'll acclimatise very well to the English game.

"He'll be a big favourite at Newcastle. He's a physical player, but also very fair.

"He's got a very good engine, and could prove to be a real hit at Newcastle.

"He'll be ideal for them, especially in away games when he can sit in front of the back four.

"He's technically very good, and can maybe make more of a contribution going forward than people would expect.

"I wish him all the best, and look forward to watching his progress at Newcastle, where I'm sure he'll do very well."