Matt Targett's coy reponse to permanent Newcastle United transfer question

Matt Targett insists he is 'focusing here and now' amid talk of a potential permanent Newcastle United transfer in the summer.

The Aston Villa loanee has impressed in his first two starts for Eddie Howe's side, helping the Magpies pick up four points from encounters with Everton and West Ham.

Steven Gerrard's decision to sign left-back Lucas Digne led Targett to push for a January exit from Villa Park, declaring in later interviews he wants to 'play as many Premier League games as possible'.

The 26-year-old and Dan Burn agreed deals with Newcastle on deadline day, and both have seamlessly slotted into defence and helped the Magpies extend their Premier League unbeaten run to six matches.

Targett was named in Alan Shearer's Team of the Week for his latest performance at the London Stadium, and his form so far has raised inevitable questions over a prospective permanent deal.

When asked by the club's in-house media ahead of Saturday's clash at Brentford, the left-back did not dismiss the idea but has urged the immediate focus to remain on the battle for survival.

"It's just focusing here and now at the moment," he told NUFC TV.

"I'm just focusing on my own performances and helping the team make sure we don't get relegated. That's the most important thing.

"Whatever happens after that happens. I'm really enjoying my time here."