I think he gives something a bit different to other players on that side. He had a great season a couple of years ago, but he's had a few injuries and not really got back to those heights. It's a harsh reality that we need to sell players and Ramsey is an obvious choice.

Newcastle are close to signing Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey in a deal worth about £40m. BBC Sport reported on Wednesday that the clubs were in advanced talks over the proposed deal for the 24-year-old. An agreement in principle has now been reached, with just the finer details left to complete.

Aston Villa face Newcastle this weekend, and Ramsey's imminent move to St James' Park could see him line up against his boyhood club in a shock twist of fate.