The Tyneside club narrowly avoided relegation in 2012-13, finishing the campaign in 16th place in the Premier League table, just five points off the drop. 

After winning just six of their 20 games after Christmas, they found themselves dragged into a scrap at the bottom of the table, and Tiote insists they are determined to avoid a repeat performance again next term.

"Last season was not the best for Newcastle," he told the club's official website. 

"It was a hard season in the Europa League and the Premier League but we've had some time off to rest now. 

"It was really difficult for all the team but when you see the season, the most important thing was just to stay in the Premier League. 

"When we look at last season, we cannot imagine to have the same season as this next year so I think it will be be better." 

Tiote appeared in 31 matches for his side last year and will look ahead to the new season under the guidance of a new director of football, following the controversial appointment of Joe Kinnear.