Ferguson said: “Nicky is a terrific lad and we are all pleased things are starting to work out for him.
“He was at this club since he was 13 and it cannot be easy to leave a place where you have been for so long so close to your 30th birthday.
“He had a rough ride to begin with but his form has come good now and, talking to Giuseppe Rossi during the week, he thinks Nicky has been their best player.
“I am sure at a time like this, Newcastle will benefit from his experience.”
