Newcastle United defender James Perch is delighted with the way he's grabbed his first team chance this season.

Perch says he is delighted to have played a big back up role this season, stepping into a variety of positions to cover injuries in midfield and defence.

Perch said: "I think it started when we were away at West Brom. Since then it has snowballed into my new nickname - and I do enjoy it. When the faithful are singing it on a Saturday afternoon, it gives you a real buzz and it's really nice to hear. This is something I have never had to deal with before.

"John Carver and the other staff call me Perchinho and maybe it's a bit of a joke, but I have been called a lot worse."