Gary Speed says former Bolton teammate Kevin Nolan is a great signing for Newcastle United.
Speed told the Evening Chronicle: "Kevin is a natural born leader, and if something isn't right he won't hesitate to tell people - that's what Newcastle need at the moment.
"He's got so much to offer and, at 26, I think Newcastle will see his best years.
"I really enjoyed playing alongside Kevin, he's a quality player.
"He can be a big asset to Newcastle - especially in their current situation.
"He was similar to me and the way I play, and we worked together as part of a five-man midfield at Bolton.
"We had the experience of former Real Madrid man Ivan Campo sitting in front of the back four and we were allowed to push on either side of him.
"Kevin's a very good friend of mine and I was delighted to see him get a big move to Newcastle."