Papiss Cisse has urged Joelinton not to be "scared" of wearing the No9 shirt at Newcastle United.

Joelinton has scored just one league goal since his £40m move last summer and Steve Bruce has previously spoken about the 'heavy load' of being the Magpies' No 9.

"If I see someone wear it, I feel pressure for myself," Cisse told ChronicleLive. "I think, 'Oh no, you have the No 9, bro'. You have to show yourself with this number because in Newcastle this number is big. I respect this number.

"Sometimes strikers have tough moments - I had it - but you have to push again. Be strong, believe in yourself - you can do it. From my experience, the only thing I can tell Joelinton is don't be scared.

"Go and do it. You will find your way because you did it in the past. Take confidence from your team-mates. Show them that you have belief.

"I know it's very hard for him. If you don't score, there's a lot of pressure. When you have the No 9 on your back, it's going to push you more because this number is heavy. It's a big number. If you wear this number, you have to be ready."