Geremi has again spoken of his pride at being named Newcastle United captain this season.

As he prepares to lead his side out at St James's Park for the first time against Aston Villa on Saturday, Geremi said: "I was not expected to be made captain and when the manager gave me the armband in pre-season I thought it was just a test and it wasn't going to be permanent.

"But two days before the kick-off last week he called me in to see if I had the capability to be captain and I said it would not be a problem.

"I am under pressure because it is 50 years since a Newcastle captain lifted a major trophy. But I think we will challenge this season and cause a few surprises."