Georginio Wijnaldum has said that he was not put off joining Newcastle United this summer, despite their battle against relegation last season.

The Magpies only secured their top-flight status with a 2-0 victory over West Ham United on the final day of the campaign.

Despite the club's problems in recent months, Wijnaldum has claimed that he is happy to have arrived at St James' Park and is looking forward to playing under manager Steve McClaren.

"I know Newcastle struggled a bit last year, but I also know they are usually higher in the rankings," Wijnaldum told Shields Gazette. "Everybody starts over and you get new chances.

"It also helps me a lot to work with the trainer. I talked with him before I came in and I know him from Holland, I know his way of playing. I feel comfortable with that.

"It's similar to how we play in Holland, so that was another reason why I chose to come to Newcastle. I didn't know a lot about the club but I've spoken over a lot of years with Tim [Krul] and that's why I chose Newcastle. I feel really comfortable with my choice."

Wijnaldum, who has won 19 caps for the Netherlands, scored 18 goals for PSV Eindhoven last season to help them win the title.