And while he still feels aggrieved about his untimely exit in August 2010, he is looking forward to renewing acquaintances with some of the players with whom he worked, and in particular with newly-capped England international striker Rickie Lambert.
Alan Pardew: "I didn't even become a professional until I was 26, so I am one of those people who always has hope for players because obviously, it came late to me.
"Rickie has certainly surpassed my career with what he has done, and long may that continue.
"He's got real class and technical ability, and it was only his mobility and fitness, probably, that held him back.
"He managed to address those and at the minute, he looks in great shape."
Source: Newcastle United Mad
Source: FOOTYMAD
