Newcastle striker Papiss Cisse will test Premier League defences this campaign if he plays as a central striker rather than out wide. The Senegal international is confident he will return to the form which brought him 13 goals in his first 14 Newcastle appearances.

The 28 year old told the Chronicle: "I hope to play in my best position as much as I can. My best position is striker.

"I had never played right wing in my life. It was my first time at Newcastle. It was okay because I was doing it for the team.

"It was difficult last year because we were fighting not to go down. The year before, all of the players enjoyed the games and couldn't wait for the next one.

"We tried our best, but we hopefully will have all of our players back, not too many injuries.

"We have a good squad. I enjoy playing for this team. Next season, we will challenge.

"We have Hatem Ben Arfa, [Moussa] Sissoko and Yohan Cabaye, and the team can challenge at the higher end of the table."