Source: Daily_Mail
Newcastle sign former PSG winger Pancrate until end of the season
Newcastle have completed the signing of French winger Fabrice Pancrate and he will be available for their trip to Preston on Monday night if his international clearance comes through in time. [LNB]The former Paris St Germain winger, who attracted interest from Everton in the summer, has signed until the end of the season and Newcastle have an option of extending his deal for two more years if he impresses. [LNB]Pancrate, 29, was released by Paris this summer. He has played for a variety of French and Spanish clubs and spent the last fortnight on trial with Newcastle. [LNB] Permanent deal: Fabrice Pancrate (c) has signed for Newcastle [LNB]Manager Chris Hughton has signed him after his performance against Hartlepool reserves last week. [LNB]Newcastle's recruitment drive in the New Year will bring in hardenedChampionship players rather than those immediately ready for the topflight. [LNB]Hughton said: 'The most important thing is this season. We are athird of the way through the season, so it is difficult to think aboutthe Premier League.[LNB] 'I have been told it's for me to identify the players I want. Ihave no fears of bringing somebody in and if I feel it's right I willput it to the board and hope to get their backing.' [LNB]Alan Irvine celebrated two years in charge of Preston this week andbelieves the battle for promotion is getting harder by the season inthe Championship. [LNB]'If you look at the size of the clubs who are in it, I think it'smore difficult to get out of now,' said Irvine, who boosted his squadahead of the visit of United with the loan signing of Michael Tongefrom Stoke. [LNB]'I've spoken to two very experienced managers who've both managed atthis level, as well as in the Premier League, and they say they hatethe Championship - because it's such a hard division to win games in.'[LNB] [LNB] Explore more:People:Alan IrvinePlaces:Newcastle, Paris
