Block Your Ears Pardew!

Pardew blamed last season's relegation battle on the number of European fixtures, saying: "Thank God we are not in Europe next season!"

Tiote played 90 minutes for the Ivory Coast in their 3-0 win over Gambia in Bakau at the weekend.

Cheik Tiote: “I have a good opportunity next season – and I will prepare for that after the two international games.

“The most important thing is to start next season well. Hopefully, it will be a good season.

“I think we can again challenge for Europe. I think it will be different to this season. It was really difficult for us.

“We didn’t have a massive squad, and we played in Europe as well as the Premier League. I think next season is going to be much better.

“I’m just thinking about being ready for next season.

“When you do well, you are the best manager and the best players.

“When the team struggles, you are criticised. That’s football. The manager and the players understand this.

“We have to believe in him and stay together. I think he is a very good manager, and I think next season will be different.”

WE TELL IT AS IT IS - NO BULLSHIT!