Ivorian Star And Newcastle Footballer Arrested For Fraud...

NEWCASTLE United star Cheick Tiote has had his flash motor seized by police after he was arrested over alleged fraud offences.

The midfielder was stopped while driving his Chevrolet Camaro near Newcastle United's Benton training ground in Newcastle, yesterday.

Officers arrested him on suspicion of fraud in relation to driving offences. And his customised black and white sports car, thought to be worth around £75,000 was uplifted.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “At around 1.30pm on Tuesday, a car was stopped on Benton Park Road, Newcastle, and a 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of fraud in relation to driving offences.”

He also confirmed that the car was seized and enquiries are ongoing.

Christmas Shocker for Keshi: Shola Ameobi 'not going' to Africa Cup of Nations

Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi will not be going to the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria, according to his manager Alan Pardew.

The former England under-21 international had been named by coach Stephen Keshi in his provisional squad.

But Pardew has ruled out the 31-year-old's appearance at the tournament, which kicks off on 19 January.

He said: "Shola won't be going. The national team manager knows the reasons, which I am keeping to myself."

Ameobi was born in Zaria, northern Nigeria, before moving to England with his parents at the age of five.

Under Fifa rules, players who have represented one country at junior level can play for another at senior level if they meet the qualifying criteria.

Ameobi was first called-up by the Super Eagles 10 years ago but turned down the invitation on the grounds that his heart was set on playing for England.

He was cleared by Fifa to play for the country of his birth last monthtogether with Chelsea winger Victor Moses.

He made his debut in a 3-1 friendly win over Venezuela last month, setting up the third goal in Miami, Florida.

Nigeria will take on African champions Zambia, Ethiopia and Burkina Faso in Group C.