Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew says Shola Ameobi has been lifted by his Nigeria selection.
The striker was on the mark in their Capital One Cup win at Morecambe.
Pardew said: "He's actually looked the best I have seen him in this pre-season. I think the Nigeria selection has actually given him a boost, I can see that in his eyes.
"He is looking forward to the international coming up and I think that's benefited us.
"Sometimes we moan about that; this time it's been a bit of a lift for him and his confidence and everything. He was terrific in the second half."
