Cheick Tiote is one of the signings of the season. The no-holds barred holding midfielder has been the bed-rock of Newcastle resurgence. Now Newcastle are likely to face a huge battle to keep him at St James’ Park. According to a report in The Sun, the Ivorian midfielder, 25, has been linked to Chelsea and Manchester City’s transfer chief Brian Marwood has been on regular vists to this season to check on his progress. Tiote however was quoted as saying, “I’m a Newcastle player – my future is at Newcastle. “I’m playing for Newcastle, and I have to finish this season strongly and help the team get into Europe. “If we do that, it will be good for the club and the fans. “We’re in a great position now.”