When Alan Pardew accepted the job as Newcastle manager he received text messages from colleagues saying he must be mad, but 12 months on his position could hardly be more secure.
On Friday, the 50-year-old celebrated a year in charge during which he has turned the Magpies from potential relegation material into surprise challengers for the top six, despite more than his fair share of obstacles.
The former Reading, West Ham and Charlton boss said: "It's been an enjoyable experience. As a manager, when you come into a club it's important to make some progress and we've managed to do that, myself and my staff. I'm really happy with the team."
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