Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has singled out two-goal hero Emmanuel Riviere for praise following his side's 3-2 win over Crystal Palace in the League Cup.

The Magpies boss said the France Under-21 striker deserved his brace for his hard work, and remains optimistic that the club has turned a corner after a poor start in the Premier League.

"Anyone who has seen us play this year will know the top of the pitch has been an issue for us," Pardew told reporters.

"We've just not had that cutting edge, so perhaps the two goals on Saturday and two tonight is a big lift for the club.

"I'm so pleased for Manu, he's worked tirelessly this season, and he deserves those goals. That will give him a real lift."

It took an extra-time strike from Paul Dummett to fire Newcastle into round four as the match was tied at 2-2 after 90 minutes.

Written by
Mark Langshaw