Steve McClaren to allow Moussa Sissoko more freedom in final third

Newcastle United boss Steve McClaren has revealed that Moussa Sissoko will operate on the right wing for the club this season to provide a goal threat in the final third of the pitch.

The 25-year-old notched four goals in 34 appearances in the Premier League for the Magpies last term, but McClaren believes that the Frenchman can add to his total by playing in a more advanced role for the team this season.

"I think he's so strong and powerful but he can score more goals. He's a threat in the final third for teams. Against Gladbach he was making runs and he's powerful," McClaren told reporters.

"We want him in attacking areas and at the present moment, we see that on the right-hand side but not restrictive. "We want to give him freedom to explore the field, rather than the disciplined kind of approach that we require in that midfield area. We're trying to play to his strengths within the structure."

Newcastle play Southampton in their Premier League opener later today.