London: Newcastle midfielder Cheik Tiote has signed a new long-term deal that will keep him at St James' Park until 2017, the club announced on Friday.
Defensive midfielder Tiote, 24, has been a revelation for Newcastle after joining the club from FC Twente in August.
The Ivory Coast international caught the eye in Newcastle's stunning 4-4 draw with Arsenal, volleying home a superb last-gasp equaliser as the Magpies fought back from 4-0 down to level.
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew said Tiote's new six-and-a-half year deal was a sign of the club's ambition.
"Cheik has been immense for us this season and is exactly the type of player I want in my squad. He is fantastic on the pitch and in the changing room and is vital for everything we want to achieve," Pardew said.
"Cheik offers us strength and presence in midfield and has proved himself to be one of the best in his position in the Premier League.”
"He's adapted brilliantly to the English game and I'm delighted he's signed a new deal with us."
Tiote's signing on a long-term contract sent a message out from owner Mike Ashley that Newcastle were determined to build a young squad capable of challenging for honours despite the recent departure of striker Andy Carroll, Pardew added.
"I think the signing of Cheik underpins the message Mike wants to give, that we can build a young team here which can go forward and take the club forward," Pardew said.
"Mike wanted to make a statement after Andy leaving that the future can be bright here, and signing Cheik is a big step forward because he's had a fabulous first season."