Reports over the weekend suggested Newcastle could be prepared to loan out Best this season as he struggles to hold down a regular place in Chris Hughton's side. Best failed to make an impact last season after joining the club during the January transfer window from Coventry. The Republic of Ireland international failed to score for Newcastle, but he has impressed in pre-season with two goals in his last two outings. Best is ignoring the rumours over his future and is focused on helping Newcastle as they prepare for life back in the Premier League. "You can play well as a striker, and not score, and play badly, and score a hat-trick," Best told the Newcastle Evening Chronicle. "I just need to keep finding the net, really. "That's what I've not done as much in my career, and probably helped others, but if I keep scoring, I'll get pats on my back. "The lads welcomed me with open arms as soon as I came. "I didn't get the goal early, and it was like I could never score, so hopefully this season's going to be different for me. "I've got my first goal, and I'm just going to keep striving."
