Alan Pardew pleased with French contingent

Alan Pardew has praised the way that Newcastle United's French players have settled into life in the Premier League.

Pardew signed Yohan Cabaye, Gabriel Obertan and Hatem Ben Arfa during the summer and the boss believes that the Tyneside community has helped the trio adapt.

"I've been pleased with how they've integrated," said Pardew. "I had concerns because when you're bringing in foreign players, there's time for settling in.

"But I believe the North East is much easier to settle into. It's a warm place, even for myself, and I know I wasn't particularly loved when I came here.

"I can think of players at London clubs. It's much more difficult there."

Pardew's Newcastle remain unbeaten in the league after yesterday's 3-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers at St James' Park.