Newcastle's Cheick Tiote spends birthday in court on fraud charge.

Newcastle United star Cheick Tiote has appeared in court charged with five offences, which include using a false identity document and fraud.

The Ivory Coast international, who turns 27 today, is accused of using a fake Belgian driving licence in a bid to obtain a UK licence.

Tiote, who signed for the Magpies from Dutch side FC Twente in 2010, was stopped by Northumbria police near the club's training ground on 12 February on suspicion of fraud in relation to driving offences.

The midfielder's car, a Chevrolet Camaro, estimated to be worth £75,000, was seized by police at the time of his arrest. Magistrates were told the false identity document charge could only be dealt with at the Crown court and that the other charges were linked.

Tiote was given unconditional bail to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on 5 July.