Wage Increase For Toon Star!

Last updated : 25 February 2009 By Footy Mad - Editor

Bassong signed last summer after joining from Metz still has two and a half years to run.

Bassong is one of the lowest-earning senior players at St James's Park and owner Mike Ashley and managing director Derek Llambias are ready to sanction a sizeable pay rise for the 22-year-old.

Ashley was at St James's Park yesterday to see Bassong - who cost just £1.5m.

Bassong: "We had to stick together after the red card, it was a setback but we overcame it.

"We looked solid and we were very brave. It was a hard game, but it's a good point for us.

"I'm more pleased the team got a clean sheet and a good result.

"It's pleasing to get man of the match, but I'm really proud of my team-mates for sticking in with 10 men.

"The result was a really good one for us. I think we could have won it as well. One point is OK, but it could have been three.

"We're happy with the result, and we have confidence that we can go to Bolton and get something."