Nigeria international Shola Ameobi has confirmed to British media he wants to depart Newcastle United in the summer transfer market.

Shola Ameobi is further down the pecking order of attackers at St James Park following the arrival of Loic Remy.

The 31 - year - old told Sky Sports : '' If they bring in strikers I might have to see what else is out there because I need to be playing football - that is really important for me this year.

"I have played here all my career and I love this club to bits, but I have put myself and my family and my situation first now and make sure I am getting the games in because that hasn't happened in recent years."

Shola Ameobi's contract with Newcastle United expires in the summer of 2014.

He has defended the colors of the Magpies for the past 18 years.

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