Newcastle United full-back Danny Simpson has shown that the recent controversy surrounding his relationship with The X Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos is not getting to him.

Simpson has been romantically linked with the British singer after being spotted on various occasions with the 24-year-old popstar, but his on/off girlfriend of seven years Stephanie Ward has accused Tulisa of being a "homewrecker".

Simpson joked with photographers during a session at the training base of the Magpies today by displaying a cross with his arms, mirroring the sign of the ITV music talent show, which sparked some laughs from his teammates.

Ward has claimed to be three months pregnant with the player's second child.