Newcastle United fullback James Tavernier has spied a first team this month.

United have been rocked by the double injury blow to Ryan Taylor and Danny Simpson.

Taylor could be out for up to six months with cruciate knee ligament damage sustained early on in last Thursday's Europa League clash with Atromitos - while Simpson limped out of Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw against Aston Villa with a hamstring strain.

"The main aim's to get a starting XI spot," he told the Evening Chronicle. "I want to be a Premier League starter for Newcastle. That's my aim, to work hard and give the manager a headache.

"I'm waiting for my chance, and when the time comes, hopefully I'll take it. I'm comfortable in all positions - left-back, centre-back and right-back. I'll work hard in all the positions that I can play.

"I'm ready to play wherever the gaffer wants me. It's just a matter of getting my chance in the Premier League."