Cheik Tiote Signs New Six-and-a-Half Year Deal at St. James Park

The Ivory Coast international has grown into a vital player at the heart of the Newcastle midfield since his arrival from Holland last summer.

His fine form has seen him rewarded with a new long term deal with the club. The deal is set to keep the midfield engine with the club until 2017.

Tiote, who scored a stunning goal at St. James Park in the amazing 4-4 draw with Arsenal, paid tribute to the fans after inking the deal. 

"I am very happy to have signed this new deal with Newcastle United...The experience of playing in the Premier League has been better than I ever hoped it could be"

On the subject of Newcastle fans, he explained, "This is a great club and the fans have been brilliant—I have never known support like it."

Newcastle management were keen to lock Tiote into a long term deal after his dominant performances this season had raised interest from other clubs.

Manager Alan Pardew weighed in with his thoughts when asked about Tiote's importance to his squad:

"Cheik has been immense for us this season and is exactly the type of player I want in my squad...He is fantastic on the pitch and in the changing room and is vital for everything we want to achieve.

"Cheik offers us strength and presence in midfield and has proved himself to be one of the best in his position in the Premier League.

"He's adapted brilliantly to the English game and I'm delighted he's signed a new deal with us today."