Hatem Ben Arfa claims to be 'very happy' at Newcastle and believes the Magpies can challenge for the Premier League title in 2012/13.
Sky Bet
- £10 Free Bet
The enigmatic France international played a leading role for Alan Pardew's side last season as they secured a lofty fifth-place finish.
He has, however, not always been a guaranteed starter during his time on Tyneside, with the Magpies favouring a more cautious approach on occasion.
There is no doubting Ben Arfa's ability, though, and he is expected to be a key figure for Pardew this season.
The 25-year-old is looking forward to the challenge and has sought to bring an end to the rumours which have suggested that he could soon be on his way out of St James' Park.
Ben Arfa told the Evening Chronicle: "I'm very happy to stay here.
"I'm happy to be back at Newcastle again. I love this club and the supporters. I love them and they like me."
Newcastle stuck by Ben Arfa after he suffered a serious double leg fracture and the former Marseille playmaker is determined to repay their faith.
He is also looking to help the club end their long wait for major silverware, with it his opinion that the Magpies are capable of challenging for top honours.
He said: "All the players have stayed here. I think we have to have confidence as we have very good players.
"Maybe if we feel very good, we can finish between fourth and first. Why not? Why can we not say we could be champions?"
Related stories
Your comments
More from Newcastle United
-
Derek Llambias Resigns From Role As Managing Director At Newcastle United
-
Newcastle United Manager Alan Pardew: I'm Going Nowhere
-
Newcastle And Sunderland's 2013/14 League Fixtures Announced
-
Derek Llambias quits LINK
-
Transfer Talk: Newcastle United Pulled Out Of Douglas Deal By Joe Kinnear
-
Metz Striker Olivier Kemen Keen On Newcastle Switch
-
Alienation And Amusement: Joe Kinnear Returns To Newcastle
-
Sky Sources: Andy Carroll To Undergo West Ham Medical
Related tags: Sport
-
Badge Of Honour? Sunderland Boss's Dig At Rivals While Meeting President
-
Free Travel Offered To Away Fans On Derby Day
-
Transfer Talk: Sunderland Chase PSV Keeper Jereon Zoet
-
Kinnear's Transfer Dealings: 54 Players Signed - But No Frenchmen
-
Newcastle Confirm Appointment Of Director Of Football Joe Kinnear
-
Late Bid For Carroll? Kinnear's Newcastle Striker Hunt
-
Joe Kinnear: I'm More Intelligent Than Newcastle United Fans
-
Steven Taylor Backs Joe Kinnear's Newcastle Return




