Injury plagued Alan Smith has declared himself fit and ready to help Newcastle in their bid to avoid the drop. The 28 year old, who signed for the Magpies for £6million in August 2007, is yet to find the net in a Newcastle shirt but he is confident he can help make a difference in the remaining five games of the season.

"I've been injured eight months and it takes a while," he told the club's official website.

"I spoke to the manager when he came in and he said he wanted me to be a big part of this squad.

"I've played a few more reserve games since he came in and I feel good. I want to be a part of this squad and try and help Newcastle United stay in this division.

"It's only my fourth game of the season. It's been frustrating having to watch the lads and not been able to help them.

"Hopefully we can get our heads down and build on the second-half performance because that was a performance of a set of lads who are determined to stay in this division and anyone watching will see that."