Cheick Tiote must wait for his chance at Newcastle United.

The Daily Star says the midfield hardman had been an automatic choice but while away for the African Cup of Nations, the French influx has changed everything at St James' Park.

Manager Alan Pardew rated the dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Chelsea as the best since he took charge over two years ago.

While James Perch is the player most vulnerable to the return of ­Tiote, Pardew is reluctant to change a winning side.