Shola Ameobi has revealed his relief at scoring for Newcastle United in a rare start against Bordeaux on Thursday night in the Europa League.

The striker's first-half strike sent Alan Pardew's side on their way to a 3-0 victory and Ameobi admits that he must continue his good form when given the chance.

"As a striker you want to get off the mark as quickly as possible at the start of the season," he told ESPN. "I'm just delighted to get a chance there today. The strikers at the club are doing very well at the moment and I have to take my chances when I get them.

"I just thank God that the chance fell to me and I couldn't have scored an easier goal. The team were fantastic."

Newcastle are now top of their group after the result.