Alan Pardew

14 June 2012

I was never a big fan of Pardew, and thought Mike Ashley's decision to bring him in was a mistake. A big mistake.

But he's completely changed my opinion of him. He showed he had a good eye in the transfer market, had tactics that countered and nullified the best and took Newcastle to unseemly dizzy heights.

Now watching him on the BBC he talked sense, more so than Alan Shearer, but that's not difficult. Plus the other pundits seemed to have a degree of respect for him, and I don't think that's always easily earned.

This isn't an article demanding he replace Fergie when he retires, but Pardew has shown he's a very good manager. Hopefully he continues to take Newcastle on to glory, and you never know, 2-3 years he could be in contention for the United post. Again, at the moment wouldn't be my first choice, but shouldn't be overlooked.

comment by MBL. (U6305)

posted on 14/6/12

Rednapp

comment by The~Gent (U4080)

posted on 14/6/12

well scouts will now follow carr, then nab his recruits!!

comment by MBL. (U6305)

posted on 14/6/12

You mean arsenal scouts!

Wenger is having him tailed and the scout that suggested gervinyho executed

comment by Sir Bubbly - (U9126)

posted on 15/6/12

I think Pardew is the kind of manager who will do very well for a club, or not very good at all.

You get managers like Roy Hodgson who will strike a middle ground where they do will do OK for a club, keep them steady, never take a team forward, but never take a team backward.

Pardew seems like he will push a club forward or give them a good hand in getting relegated.

This season it's clearly the former, but next season? A few early defeats in the first few months and opinions may just sway again, and Newcastle's season.

Newcastle have the team now to finish in the top 8 with no excuses IMO, resilient defence, a midfield even United are slightly envious of, and dangerous attackers.

Ba, Cisse, Tiote, Cabaye etc. will really have to step up again next season