CHRIS HUGHTON has been forced to rethink his plans for strengthening Newcastle’s defence following Matthew Kilgallon’s decision to snub a move to St James’ Park.

The Sheffield United centre back was Hughton’s number one defensive target as he looks to bolster his defensive ranks ahead of the promotion run-in.

But Kilgallon shocked the Magpies boss by choosing to see out his contract at Bramall Lane until the end of the season rather than join Hughton’s title favourites.

Newcastle will be forced to switch their attention to the likes of Stoke City’s Leon Cort while also hoping to agree another loan deal with Blackburn Rovers to secure the services of experienced defender Zurab Khizanishvili.

Kilgallon’s decision will come as a blow to Hughton, who had earmarked the former Leeds United Academy product as the type of player who had the quality to help secure promotion and be a useful addition to the Newcastle squad should they secure a return to the Premier League.

Hughton said: “The most important thing is that we have to get players who are right for this club. Until something’s definite, there’s always, always going to be speculation.”

Kilgallon’s agent, Paul Masterton, claimed the decision was based on the defender’s desire to join a club guaranteed of playing top-flight football next season, although Celtic are also interested in the York-born defender, who could be tempted by the prospect of playing Champions League football next season.

Masterton said: “We have spoken to Kevin Blackwell to say Matthew is fully committed to Sheffield United until the end of the season. We have also informed Newcastle United about the situation.

“Matthew is keen to win promotion with Sheffield United. If that happens, we will re-assess the options in the summer. We have done what was asked and made Matthew’s intentions clear.

“It’s not about money. It is about picking the right club for a player who wants to play at the highest level during the best years of his career.”