Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor has expressed his delight in Joe Kinnear's appointment as the club's new director of football.

The 66-year-old, who had a five-month stint as manager of the club in 2008, is said to have signed a three-year contract at St James' Park and will have final say on the club's future transfers.

"I am really happy to see Joe back at the club and I think his return can only be positive for everyone connected to the club," Taylor told Sky Sports News.

"Joe wears his heart on his sleeve and he tells it as it is and I think he is someone that Newcastle exactly need. Joe has lots of experience and he is very knowledgeable and I for one am really excited to see him back at Newcastle."

Following his appointment, Kinnear has criticised negative Newcastle supporters by claiming that he is more intelligent than the club's followers.