Nolberto Solano has backed Argentina winger Jonas Gutierrez to shine for Newcastle

Newcastle legend Nolberto Solano has tipped fellow South American Jonas Gutierrez to be a big hit in the Barclays Premier League.

In his two spells on Tyneside Solano not only mastered the rigours of the English game, but established himself as a fans' favourite at St James' Park, and he believes Argentina international Jonas can do the same after joining this week.

Solano said: "I loved my time at Newcastle and wish Jonas all the best at his new club. He can be a big success there after playing in a strong league in Argentina and then again in La Liga in Spain."

He added: "When Kenny Dalglish signed me I did not know too much English, but Newcastle is a great city - and once you are settled, it is up to you to do your job on the field and work as hard as you can for the fans.

"I liked it so much I played for Newcastle twice!

"It is always great to go back there because I have many, many friends in Newcastle."

The Magpies were delighted to have tied up their first summer signing after weeks of speculation, and were all the more pleased that they managed to sneak the 24-year-old in under the radar without their interest becoming known.

Real Mallorca have vowed to continue their fight for compensation from the player following his unilateral decision to terminate his contract, which has two years still to run.

However, Newcastle are confident Jonas is theirs and he will start work with his new team-mates when he returns from a short break to begin pre-season training later this month.

He is expected to make his debut in one of the prestigious friendly clashes with PSV Eindhoven and Valencia at St James' Park the beginning of August.