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Goals On Tap For Pap
Written by Newcastle Utd
Papiss Cissé has no problems with taking on Newcastle United's number nine shirt - because he is a goalscorer
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Club Reporter
Papiss Cissé has vowed to treat Newcastle United's famous number nine shirt "with respect", after putting pen to paper on Tyneside.
And as he follows in the footsteps of strikers including Alan Shearer, Andy Cole and Jackie Milburn to wear the iconic jersey, the Senegal international believes he is very much in their mould - a natural goalscorer.
On Tuesday, the 26-year-old forward agreed a switch from German side SC Freiburg, signing a five-and-a-half-year deal at the Sports Direct Arena for an undisclosed fee.
And in his first interview at his new club, Cissé told nufcTV that he cannot wait to get going.
"It is an honour to play for such a big club and I am looking forward to it," said the front man.
"First of all, I would like to give good value for money for the people who brought me here.
"I want to pay back the confidence the Club have shown in me, and give the supporters something to be proud of.
"I am a goalscorer, and that is the thing which gives me the most pleasure. But it is also important that I help my teammates and bring something to the team.
"Primarily though, my major strength is my goalscoring.
"I am aware of the importance of the number nine shirt, and when I spoke with the manager he made it very clear how important this shirt is.
"I will treat it with the respect and I hope to do my very best in this shirt."
Despite being on international duty ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, Cissé jetted in to Newcastle on Tuesday to complete the deal, and revealed he is relishing linking up with his national strike partner Demba Ba at club level.
"I spoke with the coach of Senegal and was pleased that he allowed me to come here and join the Club," Cissé told nufcTV.
"Obviously it is great for me that I will be with my colleague Demba, who plays with me for Senegal, so I am hopeful that we can form a great partnership."
To watch the full interview with Cissé, and see an exclusive chat with manager Alan Pardew about his new recruit, log on to nufcTV by clicking on the button below
