Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew heaps praise on Siem de Jong

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has claimed that summer signing Siem de Jong could be one of the best players he has worked with.

The attacking midfielder, 25, joined the Magpies from Ajax on a six-year deal earlier this summer.

With De Jong having impressed so far during pre-season, Pardew is certain that the Dutchman will be an asset to the club for years to come.

"I absolutely think he's a terrific player. I've been lucky enough in my career to manage some great players and I think he could be one of the best," he told Sky Sports News.

"I've worked with Teddy Sheringham and he reminds me a lot of Teddy in the way that he conducts the game, the way he conducts himself and that'll be shown on a matchday."

Newcastle start the new Premier League season on Sunday when they welcome champions Manchester City to St James' Park.