Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan believes new signing Jonas Gutierrez can play in many positions as he looks ahead to the new season.The 25-year-old winger arrived at St James' Park from Real Mallorca as an out-and-out winger.

However, from what he has seen of the Argentina international during his first few days in training, Keegan is convinced his versatility could be a major weapon for the Magpies.

He said: "When you see Jonas in training, you know he can play anywhere.

"He is absolutely top quality, and the fans are going to really like him.

"He knows the game and he can play. He sees all the pitch and maybe could play off a front man as well.

"I have never asked him that, but when you see him in training, he is another one who can really run and cover the ground.

"We have got some fit players here and we won't be lacking on the fitness side. We will still be running in the 90th minute."

Keegan is not the only one to have been impressed by the South American both on and off the pitch.

The word from the club's Darsley Park training headquarters is Jonas has already proved a big hit with his new team-mates, and he has also demonstrated his commitment to the cause.

He was in the crowd at Hartlepool for the club's first pre-season friendly on Saturday having chosen to make the short trip down the A19 despite the fact he could not play and was offered a weekend off.

Jonas was unavailable because his registration is yet to arrive from Mallorca, although that is purely an administrative formality.

The Spanish club are seeking around £12million in compensation from the player, who they claim unilaterally terminated his contract, with former club Velez Sarsfield also demanding payment.

Ironically, Newcastle are due to face Real on the Balearic island on Sunday, August 3 in the Mallorca Summer Cup, although it is understood Jonas is unlikely to be involved.

Keegan's men travel to Doncaster this Saturday after another week of training, but the Argentinian's debut has been pencilled in for PSV Eindhoven's visit to St James' Park on Wednesday, August 6.

By that time, the manager will hope to have added significantly to his squad after admitting he is targeting another four signings in addition to Jonas and Danny Guthrie, who made his debut at Victoria Park.

The club managed to keep a lid on both deals until proceedings were at an advanced stage, and they are giving nothing away about their remaining targets amid speculation they will step up their pursuit of Blackburn full-back Stephen Warnock this week.

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