Pardew praises consistent Newcastle

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has hailed the consistency of his side after their impressive start to the season.

The Magpies are third in the Premier League after going unbeaten in their first 11 matches, and the 50-year-old says the start is thanks to the understanding in the team.

“It’s certainly helped to have that continuity in the side, particularly the back four who have been outstanding together as a unit,” he told The Independent on Sunday.

“They’ve developed a very good understanding with each other. Continuity is great for confidence within the team and that has definitely contributed to our good start.”

Pardew also went on to praise the input of those who have been on the fringes of the first team for much of the season.

“That said, our entire squad is of huge importance,” he said.

“Against Everton, for example, where we had to make changes due to injury, I was delighted with the way other players such as Danny Guthrie came in and fitted seamlessly into the team.”

But Magpies defender Mike Williamson is refusing to get carried away with the stunning start to the season.

Newcastle face league leaders – and the top flight’s only other unbeaten side – Manchester City, champions Manchester United and 2010 league winners Chelsea in their next three games.

“The fact is we get a points tally each month,” Williamson, currently out with an ankle injury, said.

“If we maintain that we’re looking at a top-10 finish. At the moment we’ve exceeded it, which is fantastic.”

“But it’s a long season, a difficult league and the squad’s got a lot to play for.”