Pardew: Newcastle have top six pedigree

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is already turning his attention towards establishing Newcastle as permanent members of the Barclays Premier League's top six.

A 2-0 home defeat by leaders Manchester City on Sunday dealt a blow to the Magpies' hopes of Champions League qualification but, as things stand, they could end the campaign anywhere between sixth and third with one game still to play.

Even sixth place could hardly be regarded as anything other than a resounding success, but the manager will spend the summer attempting to ensure it is not a flash in the pan. "Our fans are realistic, they know we have come a long, long way this year. The task now is to stay there," he said.

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