Williamson enjoying competition

Mike Williamson is relishing his battle with former England international Sol Campbell for a place in the Newcastle team.

The 26-year-old defender could have been forgiven for seeing the arrival of the hugely experienced 36-year-old this summer as a major threat, having forced his way into the side during the Magpies' promotion campaign.

Asked if Campbell's arrival had come as a blow, Williamson said: "No, not one bit, I looked on it as a massive opportunity."

He added: "He is a player I have always admired and looked at from afar through his career, and I just thought what an amazing opportunity it was to learn from such a character day in, day out.

"I just thought it was a great opportunity because I am still learning my trade and trying to ply it at the top level, and it's a good thing for me.

"Coming to a club like Newcastle, you are never going to be handed the shirt - there is always going to be competition, and I know that.

"That's healthy, that's part of why you want to test yourself against the best players."