The 25-year-old 'feels great' despite his collision with John Obi Mikel at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday evening and expects to feature against the league leaders on Sunday
Newcastle United midfielder Cheikh Tiote has ruled himself fit to play against league leaders Manchester City this weekend despite suffering a nine-inch cut to his head during his side’s 2-0 win against Chelsea.
The Ivory Coast international had to be stretchered from the field following a collision with John Obi Mikel in the second half on Wednesday evening.
However, the 25-year-old is determined to be fit in time for Sunday’s game at the Sports Direct Arena, telling the Evening Chronicle: “I can't remember any of it, but the most important thing is I feel great. It's just a cut on the side.
| Premier League |
|||
 |
|||
| Cisse's remarkable run continues |
|||
"I spoke to John Obi Mikel afterwards and it's fine. It was purely an accident from him.
"If you play in midfield you have to let people hurt you and be ready for it. It's fine for me though, I will be OK for Sunday."
The three points saw the Magpies stay in the hunt for fourth spot in the Premier League and keep pace with Tottenham, who won 4-1 at relegation strugglers Bolton Wanderers.
Newcastle and Spurs are now level on points, with Harry Redknapp’s side ahead on goal difference, and just one point behind third-placed Arsenal.
And Tiote is confident of a top-four finish, although even then Champions League qualification is not guaranteed should Roberto Di Matteo's side beat Bayern Munich in this year's final on May 19.
“It was a great win [against Chelsea], and we have so much confidence,” Tiote continued.
“Chelsea are a huge club, and in the Champions League final. I think we have big confidence from this."
