Cheick Tiote: 'I am very happy at Newcastle United'

Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote has insisted that he is "very happy" at the club.

The 26-year-old has been linked with a host of European clubs following a fine campaign for Newcastle last season.

However, the Ivorian has moved to quell suggestions of a move ahead of the start of the season on August 18.

"Yes. I am still a Newcastle player. I am very happy here. All I am looking at is that the season ahead of us will be a really good one, just like last season. Last season we finished fifth and doing that again will be difficult," he told the Evening Chronicle.

The Magpies are currently in Germany as part of their pre-season preparations.