NOLBERTO Solano has finally allayed doubts about his future by signing a new five-year contract with Newcastle United.

The Peruvian winger, dogged by controversy in recent months, had spoken of his desire to play for Real Madrid and also been linked with Parma.

But yesterday he said: "After all the talk about me moving abroad I am happy to be staying at Newcastle. The length of my contract shows how committed I am to the club."

Solano ran into trouble with United boss Bobby Robson last season when he decided to revive his international career against his manager's wishes.

The 26-year-old wideman was also implicated in an investigation into invalid passports and received an 18-month ban following a drink-driving conviction.

And only last week Solano was in hot water with Peru coach Julio Cesar Uribe after allegedly being caught drinking on national TV in Lima.

Solano is now hoping the storm blows over before the start of the Copa America next month.

Meanwhile, United full-back Andy Griffin has signed a new three-year deal to become the fourth player to pledge himself to the club since the end of the season.

Midfielder Gary Speed and goalkeeper Steve Harper have already put pen to paper on fresh three and four-year deals.

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