Kinnear - Ameobi is new Fash

Newcastle chief has words of encouragement for striker

Last updated: 6th October 2008

Ameobi Shola

Ameobi: Has part to play at Newcastle

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Joe Kinnear believes Shola Ameobi could be the new John Fashanu as he looks to propel Newcastle United up the Premier League table.

The troubled club's interim chief oversaw Sunday's fightback at Goodison Park, as Newcastle came back from two down to claim a 2-2 draw with Everton.

Kinnear elected to start with Michael Owen as a lone striker but in the second period brought on substitute Ameobi, preferring the 26-year-old over deadline day signing Xisco.

At various points over the past year Ameobi has been close to leaving St James' Park but it would appear in Kinnear he has a manager who believes in his capabilities.

"I think Shola has a lot to offer. I don't think he's the finished article, but he's a powerful lad, and is willing to work," Kinnear told the Newcastle Chronicle.

"I'm going to work one-to-one with him most afternoons, and he could be a John Fashanu."

Beye boost

In other Newcastle news, Habib Beye is ready to hand Kinnear a boost as he prepares for his comeback from an Achilles injury.

The Senegal international missed Sunday's game but is confident a return to action is not too far down the line.

"I trained on Friday, but the Everton game was too soon," he told the club's official website.

"The Premier League is very fast and physical and you have to be at your best to play.

"Now I have two weeks to work on my fitness and by the time we play Man City, I will be fine and ready to play."