Steve McClaren hopes for Steven Taylor fitness

Newcastle United head coach Steve McClaren has described Steven Taylor as "an important player" for the club and is hoping to see the defender keep his fitness this season.

Taylor impressed during Newcastle's goalless draw away to Manchester United last month, and while he was dropped to the bench for the club's following Premier League game against Arsenal, McClaren says that the former England Under-21 captain will play a big part for the Magpies this season.

"He's an important player for us," McClaren told reporters. "We just want to keep him fit. If we can keep him fit, you've all seen what an asset he is.

"It's not just in terms of what he brings playing-wise, it's also the fact that he's Newcastle through and through.

"He was one of the first people I met through the door, and he's someone who knows this club inside out. He gave me some great information on everything. What he needs to do is what he's doing – stay fit and be ready when he's called upon."

Taylor has made 258 appearances and scored 15 goals for Newcastle since making his debut in 2003.