Newcastle manager Alan Pardew was delighted to see his side book their place in the Europa League last-32, but admitted it came at a big cost following injuries to Hatem Ben Arfa and Papiss Cisse.
------------------------------------------------------------
Predict result and win big with Soccer6
------------------------------------------------------------
The Magpies were held to a 1-1 draw against minnow Maritimo at Sports Direct Arena on Thursday evening, although the result was enough to put the Premier League outfit through from the group stages.
However, Pardew has been left sweating over the fitness of his star duo, who both limped off the park with injury, leaving the pair doubtful for Sunday's trip to Southampton.
"We are just having blow after blow really," said Pardew.
"Hatem and Papiss both got injured so we are going to have to wait and see on Papiss. His thigh stiffened up at half-time and we didn't take a chance. Hatem will probably miss Sunday.
"That affected us because we were short on the bench. We never really had enough attacking flair on the pitch to keep the ball and keep the pressure on. Therefore we were sitting really and unfortunately we conceded.
"We have got two very good players there who affect the game and when they come off the pitch, suddenly it gives the other team a lift.
"But we needed to get a result and got that and got through.
"I look at this competition - with a sticky second half today but otherwise I think we have been excellent."
Post A Comment!
Be the first to post a comment on this story