Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has challenged Hatem Ben Arfa to match his talent with consistent performances this season.

Ben Arfa was hauled off at half time during Monday's 3-2 defeat at Everton and was replaced by French international colleague Yohan Cabaye in a midfield reshuffle.

He told The Mirror "I think he is one of those players that we're looking at for consistency, and to get consistency from him.

"We've got a great player, no doubt about that, consistency is all I'm looking for from any player. He has proved he can perform for this club."

The 26-year-old has scored twice in seven appearances for the Magpies this season, with those goals coming in successive matches against Fulham and Aston Villa.