Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has thrown down the gauntlet to Paul Huntington and Peter Ramage to keep their places in the first team next season.

Allardyce said: "I have no problem with Ramage and Huntington - they had massive parts to play here last season.

"They were in the team last year and gained some valuable experience.

"I would expect that would improve them for this season.

"They should make the team better and make themselves better because of their experience.

"The challenge for them this season is to get in the team.

"I need to improve my defensive line. Everyone is talking about defenders, but I want those two to say 'hey gaffer, once I get in the side, you won't be able to get me out'.

"That will be a very good competition, if I can build it like that.

"I have got that on the front line, but I think we are still light of three or four players."