Hughton hopeful on deal

Chris Hughton admits he is ‘happy’ at Newcastle and would welcome the opportunity to pen a new contract.

The Magpies boss will see his current deal at St James’ Park expire at the end of the season and he is yet to agree fresh terms.

Hughton would be willing to discuss a contract extension, as he feels there is still plenty more for him to achieve in the North East.

He is, however, refusing to let the issue of his future become a distraction, as preserving Newcastle’s Premier League status remains his top priority at present.

“I have always said that I am very happy here at Newcastle,” he told Sky Sports News.

“I have been here for two-and-a-half years and it’s a place that I have always felt very comfortable. For me, though, that’s not an issue.

“The most important thing is that we start the season well. We have had our ups and downs, we are on the back of a couple of defeats, and we need to get back to winning ways as quick as we can.”