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Pardew targeting Europa League

Alan Pardew was pleased with the performance of Sammy Ameobi © Getty Images

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Alan Pardew has removed any doubt over his side's intentions in the Europa League by revealing they aim to win the competition.

Speaking ahead of his side's Group D clash against Portuguese outfit Maritimo, Pardew spoke of how much he is enjoying the Magpies' participation in the competition, insisting that qualification has always been their sole intention.

"We have entered it to try to win it," Pardew said. "That's what we are trying to do so qualification is important. We didn't have a philosophy to have it over and done with early. We just need to qualify. We're enjoying the Europa League."

The Magpies go into the game having suffered back-to-back defeats at St James' Park, something Pardew is keen to redress, with the added incentive of a victory securing qualification for the club ahead of his return to former side Southampton on Sunday.

"We have lost two home games which isn't acceptable for us. We need to make sure we win," he explained. "It would also give us qualification so it is a big night for us.

"Southampton will probably have a day off then two nice training days leading into our game. For us it is a working day, it's a game.

"We get one recovery day and then Southampton so it makes it difficult for the squad and the staff to plan and get it all right but that's the competition. We knew what it's about so we have to do the best we can."

With Pardew also confirming the news that Yohan Cabaye will join the club's lengthy injured list, the Newcastle boss was forced to concede the impact injuries have had this season, along with a cramped schedule caused by competing on two fronts.

"The injury list has an impact. I would be silly to ignore that," he said. "We have lost rhythm because of the lack of work on the training ground we've been unable to do, due to the amount of games. So it is a different philosophy."

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