Ameobi spent three years in the England Under-21 set-up

Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi has agreed a contract extension that will keep him at St James' Park until 2012.

The 27-year-old, who began his career at Newcastle in 2000, has scored three goals in 14 games this term.

Last season he had a loan period at Stoke but did not score in a brief spell and a proposed move to Ipswich collapsed when he failed a medical.

"I hadn't played for a while and had to prove myself again - I believe I did that," he told the club website.

Ameobi added: "Now I can look forward to playing a lot more games for Newcastle, which didn't look likely a few months ago.

"I believe I can do that and now my future is in order I can focus on getting it right on the pitch.

606: DEBATE I can't believe Shola is still at the club. He has NEVER been more than Championship quality Parker4PrimeMinister

"I am confident I can do it and the club are also, which they have shown by their faith with the contract. Now it's down to me to prove that."

Injuries have plagued Ameobi's progress and he spent five months on the sidelines after having hip surgery in November 2006.

Almost half of his 244 appearances have been as a substitute.

But current Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear has several other injury problems in his squad and is keen to retain his players and make new additions.

Ironically, Ameobi missed the FA Cup stalemate against Hull at the weekend with another hamstring injury, although he hopes to return for the home league match against West Ham on Saturday.

Speaking of his extended contract, Ameobi, who needs one more goal to reach 50 for the club, said: "I'm delighted to sign a new deal and commit my future to Newcastle United.

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