Alan Pardew hails "immaculate" Hatem Ben Arfa

Alan Pardew has hailed "immaculate" Newcastle United midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa.

The Frenchman fired Newcastle into contention for a Champions League spot yesterday by contributing a goal to their 3-1 win over West Bromwich Albion.

"Hatem really has knuckled down and is a much more controlled person in his manner and the way he is around the training ground," Pardew said.

"In France in the past, he had a reputation of being an 'enfant terrible'. But not here, we've not had one issue with him.

"He's been immaculate, especially this season, and has got his mindset in a really good place."

Newcastle United are currently sixth in the Premier League, five points off a Champions League spot.