Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is happy Hatem Ben Arfa setting himself big goals.

He revealed the extent of his personal ambition this week when he spoke of his dream of one day winning the Ballon d'Or, currently the personal preserve of Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi.

Pardew said: "It's always a nice dream and I encourage players to reach for the stars, so all good to him.

"But as an individual talent, you have to say he has the potential, but it's about consistency and staying fit with Hatem and if he can do that, then he will give himself a chance."