Tiote targeting Newcastle-Everton clash for return from injury

Cheikh Tiote is hopeful of returning for Newcastle in time to face Everton, having missed their last four games through injury.

The midfielder picked up a calf problem after helping the Magpies to victory over Tottenham on the opening day of the season, and has admitted that having to watch from the sidelines has been tough.

However, Tiote now has set Newcastle’s trip to Goodison Park on September 17 for his return to action.

"I'm trying my best to be fit for the Everton game but it's important to be back 100 per cent," he told the club’s official website.

"It's hard to watch the games and not be able to be on the pitch to help the team to win the game. It's difficult for me.

"We lost against Chelsea and we drew against Aston Villa, and I think it was difficult for the team because we expected to win the last game and we didn't win.

"So we've got a tough game against Everton and we have to do everything to get a good result at Everton."

Tiote made his debut for Newcastle at Everton two years ago after arriving from Dutch side FC Twente, with a stunning Hatem Ben Arfa strike sealing a 1-0 victory, and the Ivory Coast international is hoping for a similar result in 11 days’ time..

He added: "It was a great start for me and I hope I will do the same this time and that we can win the game.

"I've enjoyed my two years here so far and I hope I continue to do that."