Newcastle United striker Papiss Cisse has insisted that the club should be challenging in the top half of the Premier League table next season.

The Magpies found themselves battling against relegation last term, but Cisse is confident that the quality of players at the club should mean that the 2012-13 season was a one-off.

"I hope to play in my best position as much as I can. My best position is striker," Cisse told The Chronicle. "I had never played right wing in my life. It was my first time at Newcastle. It was okay because I was doing it for the team.

"It was difficult last year because we were fighting not to go down. The year before, all of the players enjoyed the games and couldn't wait for the next one. We tried our best, but we hopefully will have all of our players back, not too many injuries.

"We have a good squad. I enjoy playing for this team. Next season, we will challenge. We have Hatem Ben Arfa, Moussa Sissoko and Yohan Cabaye, and the team can challenge at the higher end of the table."

Newcastle's season begins with a trip to Manchester City.