Premier League experience lifts Newcastle's Simpson

Simpson made 31 appearances for Newcastle last season

Newcastle United defender Danny Simpson believes a first full season of regular football in the Premier League has made him a better player.

The 24-year-old won promotion from the Championship with the Magpies in 2010, and made 31 appearances this term as the club maintained top flight status.

"Playing week in, week out you get better," Simpson told BBC Newcastle.

"I've just been doing my job, and hopefully next season I can a few things to my game and push on."

Simpson added: "The Premier League is what every player wants to be in, and I'm no different.

"It's the longest run of games I've had and I want to keep it that way."

Former Magpies boss Chris Hughton brought the Salford-born defender on-loan to St James' Park in August 2009 from Manchester United, and secured a permanent deal for the player in January 2010.

During his time at Old Trafford Simpson made just eight first-team appearances, having spent time on loan at Sunderland, Ipswich and Blackburn prior to his move to Newcastle.

"People expect you to be this player straight away, because you've come from Manchester United, which is understandable," Simpson said.

"It's tough, you've got to work hard, train hard, and I had to do that from day one, I've got good team mates, good staff around me.

"I knew when I first came I had to work on and off the pitch to get to the point where I can play week in and week out hold my own and offer something to the team.

"I've been here two years now and I think it's been the best move for me, it's been a great two years."