Best began his career as a trainee at Southampton

Newcastle United striker Leon Best says he would turn down any offer of a loan move from St James' Park.

The 24-year-old returned to action after a three months out with a cruciate ligament injury in a reserve team game on Tuesday.

"I definitely want to stay here," he told the Northern Echo.

"I want to stay at Newcastle because I love it here and I want to help them do well. I'm really not interested in going out on loan."

Best joined Newcastle from Coventry in February, agreeing a three-and-a-half year deal with the Magpies.

He failed to score in his 13 appearances for United last season and now, on his return to fitness, has fallen behind fellow strikers Andy Carroll, Shola Ameobi, Peter Lovenkrands and Nile Ranger in the pecking order for a place in Chris Hughton's side.

"I've got to wait for my chance and, when it comes, make the most of it," added Best.

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