Despite rumours that Albert Luque is unhappy on Tyneside, he said he has no intention of returning to Spain during the January transfer window. Reports suggested the 27-year-old, who joined the Magpies for £9.5m last August, was set for a quick exit after making just a handful of appearances.
Luque: "I won't be affected by speculation, I'm focused on doing well for Newcastle. I will keep working hard to stay in the team. I want to help the team as well as doing well for myself.
"I feel much better now, I am getting stronger all the time. I picked up the injury when I arrived at the club, and that was the worst injury I've had in my career. I am still learning about English football, but I'm trying to do my best in every game. I know how important the FA Cup is for the club and the fans as well, and we know it is a big game for us," he said
The Spain international picked up a hamstring injury in only his second game for the club, forcing him out of action for three months. But since recovering he has found it difficult to adapt to the pace of the Premiership.