KEVIN Keegan admits that he had a long, hard look at Cameroon star Geremi before deciding that he had to find a place for him in the Newcastle United side.

The 29-year-old returned from the Africa Cup of Nations in February having helped guide the Indomitable Lions to the final where they were defeated by defending champions Egypt.

But before leaving for his continent's flagship tournament the former Chelsea ace had found himself out of the Magpie side and struggling for form having initially impressed following his summer switch from Stamford Bridge.

And, with this in mind, Toon boss Keegan decided that it was best to take a look at the experienced midfielder before re-introducing him to the first-team fray.

That recall at Birmingham City last month when Geremi played his part in a 1-1 draw which set the ball rolling for subsequent victories against Fulham and Spurs.

Indeed, the ex-Real Madrid man has chipped in with three assists and a goal - his first for the club - during those back-to-back victories, and in doing so has won warm applause from his gaffer.

"He's a real good man to have around your club," KK told Newcastle World TV.

"I know from talking to people that he got in the team and was made captain after he signed in the summer.

"Then he had a couple of bad games and found himself out of the team.

"So there was that in mind when he came back from the Africa Cup of Nations.

"I had a look at him and thought, 'Is he a winger or is he a full-back?',

"And everything I saw on the training pitch made me say, 'I have to find a place in the side for him'.

"He is so experienced and his delivery from set-plays is fantastic.

"He got himself a clever goal against Spurs and I was delighted for him."

Saturday's home game against Reading on Saturday is rapidly approaching sold out status.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the St. James' Park Box Office was announcing that SINGLES SEATS ONLY now remain for this fixture.

So don't delay if you want to catch the match. Tickets can be bought from the Box Office (0191 261 1571), official Club stores or via online sales here at nufc.co.uk by clicking on the link below.