Newcastle United defender Chancel Mbemba is looking forward to coming up against Wayne Rooney this week.

The Magpies host Manchester United at St James' Park on Tuesday night and 21-year-old DR Congo international Mbemba cannot wait to test himself against the talents of the Premier League's all-time second top scorer and his Red Devils teammates.

"I have not played against Rooney but I have watched him," said Mbemba.

"It is a proud moment to play against United and challenge myself."

Since arriving at Newcastle from Belgian club Anderlecht in the summer, Mbemba has played every minute of all 20 league matches for Steve McClaren's Magpies who currently sit 18th on the table.