Cheick Tiote has been given the nickname 'Mr. T' by Newcastle United fans.

The reference is to the former wrestler and actor who played tough guy roles in the 1980s TV series 'The A-Team' and one of the Rocky films and the Ivory Coast midfielder is happy to be compared with such a strong idol.

"I am happy to be called Mr T. Everybody knows Mr T is a strong guy and a fighter," Tiote told the Newcastle Evening Chronicle.

"If they call me that it's because they think I can do the same on the pitch."

And Tiote, who has previously played for Anderlecht, Roda JC and FC Twente, suggests that he wants to continue playing in the Premier League for as long as possible.

"I always wanted to play here because it's the best league in the world. I see myself long-term as a Premier League player," he added.

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