Alan Pardew hopeful of securing win against Benfica.
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Alan Pardew has said that Newcastle’s troubles in the Premier League will not stop them going for Europa League glory according to The Newcastle Journal.
The Magpies are preparing themselves for a close end of season run in as their recent poor form has seen them slip to within three points of the relegation zone.
Survival in the Premier League is worth more than ever this season as the new television rights deal that kicks in next season is reported to be worth an additional £20 to £30 million for clubs.
Newcastle are desperate to ensure they get their hands on some of that wealth to build on their successes from the last few seasons but know the pressure is on as they prepare for their weekend game with Fulham.
Some fans have called for the club to focus solely on the Premier League until safety is assured but Newcastle boss Pardew has insisted he will not rush into any changes in how the team are approaching Thursday’s Europa League tie with Portuguese giants Benfica.
Pardew stated that he was unable to play a full team during the club’s defeat to Manchester City lat weekend and believed that a good result against Benfica could galvanise the squad and lift the spirits of the team.