Emmanuel Riviere ready for challenges of Premier League

Newcastle United forward Emmanuel Riviere has insisted that he is capable of handling the physical challenge of playing in the Premier League.

The 24-year-old recently joined the club from Monaco for a fee believed to be in the region of £6m, and he is certain that he has the tools to become a success in England after deciding to leave French football for the first time in his career.

"I'm a striker with a bit of pace and strength, and I've come to a fantastic league," Riviere told members of the media. "I think I can settle in quickly.

"I don't fear the physical side of things in England, but I know I'll have to work at it because it's a more difficult league than France."

Riviere scored 13 goals in all competitions for Monaco last season.