Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew believes that his side need to rack up results at the start of the new Premier League season in order to have a chance of challenging.

The Magpies, who clinched their first trophy of the season after defeating Braga 2-1 for the Torneo Guadiana at the weekend, came close to qualifying for the Champions League last season but could only finish fifth.

"It's nice to have a trophy in the dressing room," Pardew told the Shields Gazette.

"Hopefully, we'll have another one at the end of the year. That would be nice. I feel we're ready to start the season. We know we have to hit the ground running.

"It's been the best possible start to win a trophy – get an honourable draw against Olympiakos and then beat Braga. It's a good start for us."

Meanwhile, the North-East side begin their Premier League campaign at home to Tottenham Hotspur on August 18.

Written by
Danielle Joynson