Ameobi will prove himeself all over again to new Newcastle boss

Ameobi was playing his way to a new contract under departed manager Alan Pardew.

The 22-year-old forward – whose deal expires in the summer – is now waiting for a successor to be appointed.

“When the next manager comes in, if there is one, there will a clean slate for everyone, so I need to prove myself again,” said Ameobi.

“But it’s something I’m looking forward to – I’m confident in my own ability.

“I have every opportunity to start for Newcastle every week. Hopefully, I can do that.

“I’m obviously playing for my career. I’m just looking forward to each game and to try and prove myself to whoever comes in.

“The ultimate aim is to get a new deal and stay here. It’s my home town – I’m happy here.”

Ameobi added: “It’s just a privilege to play for Newcastle United – it’s my dream club.

“I don’t take it for granted and it’s a real blessing to be playing here.”

Ameobi had been starting regularly under Pardew, and the forward – who could play against Southampton at St James’s Park this evening – feels he repaid his faith.

“I think I did prove I was worth my place,” he said.

“It’s my last season here, so I need to prove myself if I want to stay and get a new contract.

“That’s what I did, but there’s still a long way to go.”

Assistant manager John Carver, put in temporary charge, could yet take the reins until the end of the campaign.

“He’s always looked after me,” added Ameobi. “So hopefully he can get me a new contract!”

Ameobi has recovered from a recent knee problem.

He said: “I had an operation on it when I was back in the Academy, and I think from playing so much, it flared up a bit.”