• Premier League

Toon face new challenges, says Pardew

ESPN staff
June 27, 2012

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew says the Magpies will face "different challenges" next season after they finished fifth last time to book a return to European competition.

Manager of the Year Pardew said the team faced a tough battle to replicate those successes, but stressed that he was determined to keep hold of key players such as Hatem Ben Arfa and Demba Ba.

The 50-year-old is also looking to strengthen his squad, and has been linked with moves for FC Twente striker Luuk de Jong, Lille defender Mathieu Debuchy and PSV Eindhoven forward Ola Toivonen.

He told the Newcastle Evening Chronicle: "This is going to be a different year - you have to remember that. Different players will come in and out of form, and it won't just be about those who did well last year.

"I am expecting Gabby Obertan and Sylvain Marveaux to be back and raring to go. They are two players that can have big seasons for us next year.

"There is Sammy Ameobi and Shane Ferguson as well. It is a year further down the line for them, and they will get their chances to do well for us. It is a chance to see how they develop."

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