Southampton striker Rickie Lambert has expressed his gratitude to former coach Alan Pardew for providing him with the "kick" necessary to forge a successful career in football.
The 31-year-old arrived at St Mary's for £1m from Bristol Rovers under Pardew's tutelage with the Saints in 2009, before playing a pivotal role in helping the club ascend through the divisions and establish themselves in the Premier League, culminating in earning a call-up to the England set-up.
The duo are poised for a reunion this afternoon as Lambert faces his ex-manager in the visit to Newcastle United but, despite being the opposition today, the striker claims that he is forever indebted to the 52-year-old for shaping his career.
"Looking back, I was one of the unfittest professional footballers you will ever see," the forward told The Independent.
"He did do a lot for my career. He gave me the kick that I needed. I'll always be grateful for what he did.
"I learned at every step but when I came to Southampton my all-round game just improved massively."
Lambert has netted over 100 times for the club during his four-year stay in the South Coast.
Today's clash at St James's Park is scheduled to kick off at 3pm.
Shane Callaghan
