Newcastle United boss Chris Hughton admits he's concerned about Nigeria's pursuit of striker Shola Ameobi.

Ameobi also wants to represent his native Nigeria in the World Cup finals next summer, but it is the January African Nations Cup that would provide Hughton with a major headache.

Hughton told the Evening Chronicle: "It's one that that I intend to talk to Shola about very soon. I was only just made aware of it today.

"I will see what is thoughts are.

"My only concern at this moment is to make sure he is fit for Newcastle. We need him as soon as possible because he's missed three months now after a really good start to the season. I want to see him producing for Newcastle.

"Shola is a good lad and a thoughtful lad, and if his thinking is that there is an opportunity to play at international level then I can understand it."