Newcastle United caretaker boss Chris Hughton rates Sebastien Bassong as the best new import of the season.

When asked if Bassong was one of the best newcomers, Hughton told the Evening Chronicle: "Absolutely.

"I wouldn't hesitate to say he's been the surprise package of the season.

"He's seized his opportunity. Even when he's played left-back he's been first class.

"Against Tottenham he was up against Aaron Lennon, who was in form and has a lot of pace, but he did well.

"He's formed a good relationship with Fabricio Coloccini, which speaks volumes for him.

"He has been a real find, and it's a real positive. This is a lad who came on a trial basis in the summer.

"We saw something in him, but if you had said to me did I think at this stage of the season he would have played the amount of games he has played, I would have said 'No'.

"It's testament to him. He has looked to work and develop his game and he is reaping the benefits of it."