Hatem Ben Arfa says his time at Newcastle United has improved him.

Ben Arfa is keen to make the most of his "calmer, quieter" outlook.

"In life, every failure makes you grow," the France international told the Evening Chronicle.

"It's part of what makes a man grow up. At 25, I'm more mature than I was at 20. I am stronger than before. I've evolved, I grew up.

"I am calmer, quieter. In the field, I feel much better. I'm really much more committed to the collective. I think now more than ever, I'm a competitor.

"With experience, it made me better. I give everything now because I am responsible for my actions. I've kept my strengths and started to erase some weaknesses, like lack of concentration and consistency in the game.

"Much is expected of me, but I also expect a lot from me.

"I hope I can exploit my potential before the end of my career, otherwise it will be a regret and disappointment."