St James’ Park boss hopes compromise can be reached sooner rather than later.
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Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is hoping to see Senegal international Papiss Cisse board the squad’s flight to Portugal later today, after the ongoing saga with the Muslim player allegedly refusing to wear the shirts sponsored by Wonga – due to religious beliefs according to The Chronicle.
The 28 year-old was allowed an extended break due to international duty, which is why he did not appear in the Magpies’ 4-2 win over Motherwell last night. But now it appears that Cisse’s representatives are still in talks with Newcastle and the PFA over how they can overcome the issue of Wonga sponsoring the shirts.
One solution presented by the Senegalese hitman’s representatives was to allow him to wear a shirt with a charity’s logo on, but due to branding and advertising it may not be allowed. Wonga may not be too happy with the most iconic Newcastle shirt, number 9, being the only one without their sponsorship.
Pardew is looking to continue his winning start to pre-season when they arrive in Braga, after telling reporters : “I said to the players before the last game of the season this pre-season would be the toughest I would ever put on”.
“We have to be sure of that. I think it showed how tough it has been by the eleven starters last night. They looked fit and sharp. At times, we really did open Motherwell up.”
The Magpie’s boss was not impressed by the sides unsuccessful campaign last year where they finished in 16th place – still above bitter rivals Sunderland though.