Newcastle live updates

Pardew comes out fighting

We have had a really, really poor month in terms of results.

Now we have to stick together and get through it. As I've said before, words don't win games. They are not important any more.

Even after Benfica, a few of the players perhaps thought after that game, we would be all right.

But we have got one point from three league games, and that's not good enough for this football club.

Now we are in a dogfight - and we have got to fight. We have got enough character and belief in that dressing room to get through it.

– Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew

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Ben Arfa raring to go

My hamstring is completely fine now and I feel happy that the injury has gone and I can return to full fitness. I am 100 per cent fit.

I'm happy that I have come back into the team slowly and gradually. The manager and the doctor have put in place a programme to ensure I return gradually rather than rush back and get further problems in the future.

I am happy with the work of the backroom staff and the manager because this was my first muscular injury and it was important that the healing ran its course.

– Newcastle's Hatem Ben Arfa

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Rumour - Duo chase keeper

Alex McCarthy has been one of Reading's top performers this season. Credit: PA

Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy's recent form has sparked the interest of both Newcastle and Liverpool, according to the Daily Mail. The young England stopper has put in some recent wonderful displays, especially in a goalless draw against the Anfield outfit.

Newcastle set to miss out on Bautheac

Nice's Eric Bautheac challenges Damian Duff in a pre-season friendly. Credit: PA

Nice midfielder Eric Bautheac is set to snub reported interest from Newcastle and Marseille and stay with the club next season.

In a webchat on lequipe.fr, he said: "Of course it's flattering when a club like Newcastle, OM or Lazio are following me, but I signed a three-year contract with Nice.

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