Newcastle United defender James Perch has admitted that he is delighted with the club's form this season.

The Magpies have only suffered defeats to Chelsea and Manchester United in the Premier League and they are currently top of their Europa League group.

Perch believes that his club have surprised a few people with the depth of their squad.

"I think we've surprised a few people by how much strength we've got in and around the first team," he told the Daily Star.

"With playing in Europe, the manager has had to make a few changes, but lads like Shane Ferguson and Sammy Ameobi have come in and played perfectly.

"The season is beginning to look good for us. We haven't conceded a goal in Europe, the strikers are scoring goals and the young ones are all pushing their claims."

Perch has made 14 appearances for Newcastle this season.