Pardew Plays Down Carroll Transfer

02 May 2011 11:57
Alan Pardew claims Hatem Ben Arfa is a bigger miss than Andy Carroll. Alan Pardew: “The loss of Ben Arfa is maybe more important than Andy Carroll. Suarez is what Ben Arfa can do for us. He was brought in as a link player and would provide that link play that Suarez gives Liverpool. “That is more important than the impact Carroll had on the game, which was minimal. “After a fast start by Liverpool, their first shot, that was not the best of starts for us. We played well in that period because we took the emphasis away from them. “We couldn’t quite find the movement or a moment around the box. Just after half-time we had a big chance with Joey (Barton), I would have expected him to score that. “Our strikers could be improved. We will have to work on that. We need more penetration. Jonás Gutiérrez caused problems and we affected the game a little and not the scoreline. “The little things fell their (Liverpool’s) way. “Spirit in our group is fine. The commitment and effort is honourable. We lacked a bit of quality. “Hatem and Danny (Guthrie) were missing.”   MAGPIES IN EUROPE "Magpies In Europe" is available NOW! Sports Journalist Richie Everson: "At last a book that the fabulous Newcastle United fans can relate to. It's informative, all the facts and figures are there, plus the 120 match reports from all the fixtures ... but it is the articles by the supporters that amazed me. "I went to many of those games, and this is the only book I can honestly say 'hits the nail on the head'! "Yes we know the results and the scorers, but some of the facts in this book had me so wrapped up in it I couldn't put it down. "Was Benny Arentoft cup-tied when he played in the final? Big Wyn and his battle with John McGrath; McFaul scoring a penalty when the crowd had gone home; the trouble in Palermo; it is all amazing stuff. "I would honestly give this book 10 out of 10." MAGPIES IN EUROPE From Antwerp to Zurich Price: £9.99 (including post) The book is available NOW!   Please include your address in a letter and send a cheque (or postal order) for £9.99 payable to Mr K Fletcher, to: 'MAGPIES IN EUROPE', K Fletcher, 5 Dunelm, Sacriston, Co Durham DH7 6NU. Or contact: Kevnumad@fsmail.net

Source: FOOTYMAD