Shola Ameobi has thanked the Newcastle United Football Club fans for their support.

The former England Under-21 international scored his first goal since October 2006 in the 2-2 draw with Manchester City, and he received a standing ovation from the St James Park faithful.

"When you get that sort of reception it makes up for all those tough times that I've endured with all the injuries and time out," Ameobi told the official club website.

"It just means so much when you are playing in front of your home fans. It makes all that hard work worthwhile. It's been a long two years and it's been a tough time.

"But hopefully now I'm back playing and will continue to grow in confidence."