Leicester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson says Newcastle United have made a canny signing in former FC Twente midfielder Cheik Tiote.
As boss of Ivory Coast, Eriksson unleashed Tiote against Brazil, Portugal and North Korea during the Elephant's ultimately unsuccessful bid for a second round place - and while the World Cup was a damp squib he was suitably impressed with the midfielder.
Hailing his tackling ability as up there with the very best, Eriksson believes Newcastle have unearthed a potentially world-class performer.
"I have not been surprised how well he has done in England. He is so good that he could play in whatever team," Eriksson told the Sunday Sun.
"I had him and he played all three games for Ivory Coast in the World Cup. The link with Michael Essien? Yes, I can see it a little bit. They are similar in their abilities.
"He is a central midfielder and is extremely strong. And the best thing about Cheik is that he shows it every game and in every training session - he is consistent, he will never let you or any of his team-mates down.
"The tackles he puts in are incredible and he is a ball winner. When he wins it he plays it very simply and is a good passer of the ball."
