Vurnon Anita happy to play in defence for Newcastle United

Vurnon Anita has insisted that he is happy to play in defence for new club Newcastle United.

The 23-year-old midfielder was forced to play at right-back during the Magpies' recent 1-1 draw with Aston Villa after Danny Simpson was taken off with an injury.

"We have got two injuries on that side, so if the manager needs me on that side, I will do my best for the team," he told the club's official website.

"It went well against Aston Villa. As a right-back you can come forward a lot, so I did that also and yes, I think it was a good performance.

"Central midfield is my position, so the main focus is on the midfield, but if the manager needs me on the right side, I can also play there."

Newcastle continue their Premier League campaign on Monday night when they travel to Everton.