Newcastle squad responds to Alan Pardew - Gabriel Obertan
Last updated on .From the section Football
Newcastle United winger Gabriel Obertan says manager Alan Pardew's handling of his squad has been key to their bright start to the Premier League season.
The Magpies are unbeaten in six league games and have progressed to round four of the Carling Cup after a flurry of summer arrivals to St James' Park.
"It has been easy to fit into the group," Obertan told BBC Newcastle.
"It's not the easiest job, but the coach is doing great at managing egos and keeping everybody happy."
Obertan added: "Sometimes there is turnover and you have to explain to players why they're not playing, and he [Pardew] is doing great."
Pardew brought the former Bordeaux winger from Manchester United on the cusp of the Premier League season, to add to the complement of French-speaking players on Tyneside.
Along with players such as Yohan Cabaye, Demba Ba, Hatem Ben Arfa and Sylvain Marveaux, Obertan has been part of Pardew's plans with seven appearances in all competitions.
"It feels great, I came here to play, and so far so good," Obertan continued.
"I'm starting to make my mark on the team, the last game at Blackburn was my best game so far.
"If I can score and make some assists, it will be perfect. The confidence and the trust the coach has in you is the perfect motivation for me."
BBC Newcastle has exclusive commentary of every Newcastle United game, with away games on 95.4FM and home games on AM and DAB, while Total Sport brings debate, interviews and reaction throughout the week from 17:30 BST.
