Newcastle United: Steve McClaren wants to build team around Moussa Sissoko

France midfielder Moussa Sissoko is a vital part of Newcastle United's future, says the club's manager Steve McClaren.

Sissoko, who joined the Premier League side on a six-and-a-half-year deal from Toulouse in January 2013, scored five goals in 38 appearances for Newcastle in all competitions last season, including a vital goal against West Ham United on the last day of the 2014/15 campaign that helped secure the Geordies' top-flight status.

McClaren confirmed he had told Newcastle managing director Lee Charnley that they had to keep hold of the "very professional" French international.

"We cannot lose Moussa, I know there's a lot of interest but he's under contract," said McClaren during a radio phone-in with BBC Newcastle, where he took questions from Newcastle fans.

"On my first day he walked into my office, a specimen of a man, an absolute presence and a great manner - very professional and low maintenance.

"I've said to Lee Charnley, 'wow, we've got to keep this guy'. I want to build a team around him."

Cup run

Newcastle last tasted domestic cup success back in 1955 when they won the FA Cup, but McClaren said he was hoping to secure silverware in his first season in charge at the Tyneside club.

"To win a league you have to win 38 games, to win a cup, six or seven very good games and you can be there," said the 54-year-old, who won the League Cup with Middlesbrough in 2004.

"Winning one was the highlight of my career – an unbelievable feeling. We want that."

The former England manager also confirmed defender Fabricio Coloccini would stay at St James's Park and remain the club's captain.

"He wants to stay here so I am delighted," McClaren said.

"Do I need to change the captain? Why do I need to unsettle everything? He carries on."

Newcastle get their season underway with a home encounter against Southampton on 9 August.