Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has heaped praise on Magpies keeper Tim Krul after his impressive start to the 2011/12 campaign.

The 23-year-old Dutchman joined the Tyneside club as a teenager in 2006 and established himself as Newcastle's number one towards the end of last season.

He has been particularly impressive this year, contributing to Newcastle's excellent defensive record which has seen them only lose once all season.

Pardew referred to the last great Newcastle number one Shay Given, now at Aston Villa, when speaking of Krul's potential.

"He has a long way to go. Shay Given was at the top of the tree for Newcastle for many years," he said.

"Tim has a great future in front of him if he keeps his feet on the floor, works on his game. Who knows what he can achieve?"

Pardew's side have enjoyed a surprisingly good start to the Premier League season and are currently fourth. They next host Chelsea on Saturday.