A day ahead of his side's Group D clash against Portuguese outfit Maritimo, Pardew says the competition is now on his wish list.
Alan Pardew: "We have entered it to try to win it.
"That's what we are trying to do so qualification is important.
"We didn't have a philosophy to have it over and done with early.
"We just need to qualify. We're enjoying the Europa League.
"We have lost two home games which isn't acceptable for us.
"We need to make sure we win.
"It would also give us qualification so it is a big night for us.
"Southampton will probably have a day off then two nice training days leading into our game. For us it is a working day, it's a game.
"We get one recovery day and then Southampton so it makes it difficult for the squad and the staff to plan and get it all right but that's the competition.
"We knew what it's about so we have to do the best we can.
"The injury list has an impact.
"I would be silly to ignore that.
"We have lost rhythm because of the lack of work on the training ground we've been unable to do, due to the amount of games.
"So it is a different philosophy."