Pardew aims for fourth by Christmas

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has challenged his players to take the chance to enjoy Christmas dinner sitting in fourth place in the Barclays Premier League table.

The Magpies head into Saturday's home clash with Chelsea lying in exactly that position and a point clear of Andre Villas-Boas' men. With home games against promoted Swansea and West Brom to come after next weekend's trip to Norwich, Pardew's men have been presented with an opportunity to extend their stay in the upper reaches of the table.

Full-back Ryan Taylor said: "When we play Chelsea on Saturday, we are one point above them now and to think we would be four points above them if we beat them, that would be massive going into Christmas. The Gaffer mentioned on Friday, 'Imagine having your Christmas dinner sitting in fourth position'."

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