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Ki Sung-yueng says he can’t wait to pull on a Newcastle United shirt and sample life at a club steeped in history and tradition.

The 29-year-old has joined the Magpies on a free transfer following his release from Swansea City and is already looking forward to his full Premier League debut against Tottenham Hotspur in the first game of the season.

When asked his thoughts on signing on the dotted line for United he said: “When I was young I knew all about Alan Shearer playing for Newcastle.

“So of course I knew the club.

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“When I won a bronze medal at the Olympic Games in 2012 my first game was in Newcastle so it brings great memories.

“When I came to the Premier League I always knew that playing against Newcastle was difficult.

“Every time I come to Newcastle to play against them I felt envy with the fans.

“I know there is a big history at the club.

“Of course I played at Sunderland so I knew there is a massive derby with Sunderland.

“This is club where the players can have pride.

“The facilities and the fans here are perfect.”

Now Ki is eager to get his first appearance in a black-and-white shirt and while there are a host of friendlies to come in Ireland, Portugal and the UK this summer he already has an eye on the clash with Spurs.

Ki, speaking to NUFC TV, said: “Firstly I have to play well to get support from the fans.

“That is a priority for a player.

“There will be difficult times but I know the supporters will be behind us.

“It’s not far to the first game now so I want to make sure I show my quality as quickly as possible.”

His switch to United will also see him link up again with his former Swansea team-mate Jonjo Shelvey after a successful stint together at the Liberty Stadium earlier in his career.

He said: “I know Jonjo very well and I have very good memories of playing with him at Swansea.

“It was the best season of my career with Jonjo.

“I know him very well and how good he is.

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“Hopefully we can help make another good season.”

Rafa Benitez has also had his say on the signing with United releasing a brief statement on Friday.

The Toon boss said: “I’m pleased to welcome Ki to the club.

“He is a player with lots of Premier League and international experience and it was an easy decision to bring him here.

“He is the captain of his country, a good character and he will be a good addition to the squad.”