Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has hinted Alan Smith is set for an extended run in attack after his performance in Wednesday's 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

Allardyce, who left Mark Viduka on the bench until the final 13 minutes of the game, was hugely impressed by the younger of his two former Leeds frontmen.

He said: "Getting the team going starts from the frontline.

"Alan is a very experienced player, even though he's only 27. He shows the rest of the lads what has got to happen by his tenacity and commitment and his hold-up play."