Newcastle United midfielder Cheikh Tiote insists he is fully focused on the club and has not allowed speculation linking him a move elsewhere in the January transfer window distract him.
The Ivorian joined the Magpies in the summer of 2010 from FC Twente and has since made a big impression at St James’ Park, drawing interest from the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham.
But the midfielder insists that he is happy in the north-east and is not thinking about a potential move to one of the top clubs in the Premier League.
“People can say whatever they want to say about me, but I’m a professional footballer, and I play for Newcastle,” he told the Evening Chronicle.
“I’m not thinking of leaving in January, I’m very happy playing for this club. That’s my job, and I need to work hard for the team and the club.
“I have to focus on my job for Newcastle, that’s what I have to do.”
The 25-year-old made just his twelfth appearance of the season in Newcastle’s 2-0 victory over Bolton on Boxing Day, after returning from a knee injury, and is delighted to be back helping his team-mates on the pitch.
“I’m happy because I wasn’t playing for a long time,” he added.
“I’m happy to be back to help the team move forward. It was very difficult for me, because I like to play and do my job.
“In football, when you get injured, you need to be strong mentally and work hard to come back. That’s what I did.”
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