Alan Pardew warns Hatem Ben Arfa over inconsistency

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has challenged Hatem Ben Arfa to match his talent with consistent performances this season.

Ben Arfa was hauled off at half time during Monday's 3-2 defeat at Everton and was replaced by French international colleague Yohan Cabaye in a midfield reshuffle.

He told The Mirror "I think he is one of those players that we're looking at for consistency, and to get consistency from him.

"We've got a great player, no doubt about that, consistency is all I'm looking for from any player. He has proved he can perform for this club."

The 26-year-old has scored twice in seven appearances for the Magpies this season, with those goals coming in successive matches against Fulham and Aston Villa.