Shola Ameobi hopes to be given the chance to play as target man for Newcastle United Football Club.

With Michael Owen injured, the former England Under-21 international is being tipped to be given a leading role as Manchester City visit St James Park on Monday night.

"It's playing my position, it's getting me into the old habits again, the old routines I used to have and playing as a centre-forward, which is obviously where I want to play," said Ameobi.

"It's getting me playing up top and staying there and being a target man for the team. I certainly enjoy playing that role and hopefully I will get a chance to play there a bit more.”