Cheick Tiote has deflected questions about his future by insisting that he and his teammates need to focus on pushing Newcastle United up the Premier League table.

Steve McClaren's side are just two points above the relegation zone after 12 games.

Tiote has been linked with MLS club New England Revolution, but the 29-year-old has opted against discussing the speculation.

When asked about his future by The Chronicle, Tiote said: "I don't know because for the moment we need to try to focus on being higher in the table."

Tiote joined the Magpies from FC Twente in 2010.