Pardew: 'Best Goal Ever'!

08 January 2012 13:03
Alan Pardew led the praise for a wonder goal from France international Hatem Ben Arfa in the 2-1 home win against Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup third round.

Alan Pardew: “I've not seen a better individual goal.

“It's the greatest goal I've ever seen. You can volley into the corner or smash a goal from 40 yards, but to score a goal like that you need to be a special talent.

“It was an unbelievable goal and I'm really pleased for him because he's had a tough ride here with injuries, but showed today that hopefully Demba Ba won't be as sorely missed as we thought he might be.

"I was quoted as having problems finding a role in the team.

“I didn't have to clear the air with him. I thought his comments were spot-on.

"He understands this is a big agenda for him and he needs to do well here.

"At some other clubs it hasn't gone so well and he is doing everything in his power to do well here.

“He's got to understand we are playing a high energy game and trying to fit him into that. There's a balance that's needed. You have to say he was outstanding in the second half when we moved him wider.

“There was a suggestion he didn't want to play wide, but he has to understand it's about the team and where we think he fits in best. His talent was there for all to see today.

“It's a great opportunity for him and he probably feels he could play for France. I know the France Federation are looking at him closely to see if he will emerge.

“He's got the talent as he showed today. Anybody who sees that goal will know he's a special player and you have to treat him in a special way sometimes.

“Blackburn knocked us out of the Carling (League) Cup in the last minute, so it was nice to get this win.”

 

Source: FOOTYMAD