Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi has laughed off manager Alan Pardew's claims that the Nigeria-born forward is a 'legend' in the North East.

The 30-year-old received praise from the former West Ham United boss after equalising for the Magpies in the 1-1 draw in the Tyne-Wear derby last weekend.

"To be honest, the first thought that came to my mind when I heard that was, 'Are you mad?', but I guess that was his way of appreciating getting the goal against our rivals," said Ameobi.

"I know he holds me in high regard in the dressing room, and as a player, there's nothing better than your manager having that faith in you that you can pull through when he needs you.

"For me, it's fantastic. To have that sort of praise from the head of the club means a lot, and hopefully I can carry on helping us win games."

Newcastle can go two points within fourth place with a victory over Arsenal this evening.