19 Things We Learned From Steve McClaren's BBC Radio Newcastle Interview

5. Cheick Tiote Is Going Nowhere And Will Be A Key Player For McClaren's Newcastle

There has been plenty of speculation surrounding the future of United's midfield general following a couple of poor seasons. And even though his time on Tyneside looked to be coming to a close, McClaren knows what he can offer having worked with him in Holland with FC Twente and is looking to make the Ivorian a key player.

"I want him fit and playing. He's had a couple of great seasons. I just remember one game against Manchester United and I thought he was absolutely brilliant and that's what Cheicky is capable of doing." "We need to get him fit, get him out on the field and get him playing to the level he can play. And if he does that he'll be a great asset."

Is Steve a magician? Cheick Tiote's best days are far behind him and only threaten to reappear when he's handed the captain's armband. And he won't be getting that from McClaren ahead of the new season...