Ameobi aims to take chance

Ameobi: Wants to start

Shola Ameobi is hoping to be given the chance to play as a target man by Newcastle United's interim manager Joe Kinnear.

With Michael Owen injured, Ameobi could be given the nod to start Newcastle's game with Manchester City on Monday night.

Kinnear feels the ex-England Under 21 international has similar qualities to former Wimbledon striker John Fashanu and Ameobi is keen to play in his preferred position.

"It's playing my position, it's getting me into the old habits again, the old routines I used to have and playing as a centre-forward, which is obviously where I want to play," said Ameobi.

"It's getting me playing up top and staying there and being a target man for the team.

"I certainly enjoy playing that role and hopefully I will get a chance to play there a bit more."

Funny game

Ameobi had options to drop down to the Championship during the summer, but he is determined to make the most of his career at St James' Park.

He added: "Football is a funny game at times. A week is a long time in football and I just take every week as it comes.

"The game is about moving on and certainly, I thought that was the case for me, but it wasn't to be.

"I have just got to make the most of where I am, I have always said that, and hopefully I can help this team climb up that table.

"We have got a couple of important games coming up and I want to be as fit as possible to help us achieve maximum points in those two games."