Alan Shearer says Sebastien Bassong's availability is crucial for Newcastle United.

Bassong has been linked with Arsenal in the summer and Shearer told nufcTV: "We left him alone last weekend to make sure he would be fit for this weekend.

"He's been a top performer for Newcastle this season.

"He's come in and settled down very well and for a youngster has taken to the Premier League extremely well.

"He's big, strong and quick and we're going to need him in the next few games and he'll be a big player for us.

"I'm delighted and I'm keeping my fingers crossed there's no reaction to his injury and he's OK to travel with the squad."