Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote believes Papiss Cisse is back to his best.

Few United players know the Toon No 9 better than his best pal Tiote, and the Ivory Coast star believes he is back to his sharpest.

He told the Evening Chronicle: "It's good to see Papiss back and scoring a goal.

"I think it's a good thing for everybody - the fans, the players and the club.

"It wasn't good for him to be in this situation.

"It's finished now, and he can focus on his football on the pitch and do his work."