Pardew targets win over Bordeaux

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew is expecting nothing less than three points from their home Europa League fixture against Bordeaux on Thursday.

Newcastle have not had the best of starts to the competition after being held to a goalless draw with Portuguese outfit Maritimo in their opening match, but Pardew feels playing in front of a home crowd will make the difference.

“They (Bordeaux) obviously put themselves as favourites to win the group with their win at Brugge, and a very fine victory it was too,” Pardew said. “They are a very good Ligue 1 side from France.

“They had a terrific win on Sunday too so they are in very good form.

“Nevertheless it is a home game and we have a good record at home, regardless of the opposition.

“We will be looking to win the game and it is the first time in the competition, at home, where our fans will be taking it seriously. That will be important for the atmosphere in the stadium and important for us to focus our minds.

“With European games the concentration level goes up a little and you need to be ready for this type of opposition. We respect them and we are looking forward to playing against them. But we expect to win.”

And France international Yohan Cabaye said the competition is a great experience for those not used to regular European football.

“Last season we worked really, really hard every game to try and play in a European competition,” Cabaye said.

“This season we are playing in the Europa League so it is very important to play properly in this competition.

“The Europa League is good experience for many players, so we have to focus on winning tomorrow’s game, so we have to try and win every game and play at the top of the league.”