Premier League: Newcastle's Cheick Tiote set to discuss new deal

Alan Pardew says he ‘loves’ Cheick Tiote and is keen to resolve his contract situation to make sure the midfielder stays at Newcastle United.

Tiote was linked with a move to Lokomotiv Moscow in the summer but an acceptable offer was never made and Pardew is delighted to have kept hold of the 28-year-old.

Tiote has been a key player at St James’ Park since his arrival at the club in 2010, but his current deal expires in 2016 and Pardew hopes to sort out an extension.

Asked if Tiote had been unsettled by the speculation in the transfer window, the Newcastle manager said: “Yes, for sure.

“We obviously had a team fighting for his services, but the finance was never really in place.

“I think his contract situation needs to be resolved at the end of the season, for sure.

“I love him. He’s everything that you want in a Newcastle player.

“He has the quality, and of course you’ll never underestimate the fact that he wants to win.”

Pardew believes Tiote sets the perfect example to younger members of the Newcastle squad with his determination and attitude.

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He added: “I just love that he’s a winner. It can overcome so many obstacles as a footballer.

“I think young players here need to take a big leaf out of his book in terms of how he approaches training and games.

“Sometimes it can overspill into bookings and sending-offs, but you can never fault him for wanting to win.”

Newcastle travel to Stoke City on Monday night and Pardew is hoping for another big performance from his senior men, such as Tiote and skipper Fabricio Coloccini.

“You do need big players at this football club,” said Pardew.

“Colo and Tiote are two very important players for us. They showed that on Wednesday night and last Saturday.

“They have the fight and the quality. You can’t fight your way to a Premier League win - you have to play. They’ve got that balance right.”

Watch Stoke take on Newcastle live on Sky Sports 1 with coverage from 7pm on Monday.