Ameobi fighting for Newcastle future

Nigeria-born Sammy Ameobi has admitted he is fighting for his Newcastle future, following the exit of Alan Pardew as he targets a new deal.
Pardew, who handed Ameobi his first-team debut at Newcastle, has left St James Park for Crystal Palace.
But with Pardew now gone, it’s more a case of tough luck for the 22-year-old, whose contract expires in the summer.
“When the next manager comes in, if there is one, I need to prove myself all over again.
“I’m obviously playing for my career, essentially, but it is something I’m looking forward to. I’m very confident in my own ability. I have every opportunity to start for Newcastle every week. Hopefully I can do that, whoever comes in. I think I did prove I was worth my place, yes. That’s what I always wanted to do really. It’s my last season here so I need to prove myself if I want to stay and get a new contract.
“That’s what I did but there is still a long way to go. There is a lot of hard work ahead and I am just looking forward to each game and to try and prove myself to whoever comes in.
“Of course, the ultimate aim is to get a new deal and stay here. I really want to stay. It’s my hometown, I’m happy and I love it here. It is just a privilege to play for Newcastle United. It is my dream club. I have supported them since I was a kid. Every week, I don’t take anything for granted and it’s a real blessing to be playing here.”
John Carver who brought Shola Ameobi into the team from the academy is in charge as a caretaker coach and he is familiar with Sammy.
And Ameobi Jnr added: “Obviously he has been here a long time and I know him well. He’s always looked after me, so hopefully he can get me a new contract!”