Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is keen to work with a fully fit Sylvain Marveaux next season.

The French midfielder's first season in English football was completely ruined by a number of bad injuries.

"Sylvain had looked really good in training in the last few weeks of the season. But we were never going to play him," Pardew told the Evening Chronicle.

"What you need to remember is that he was out a long time even before we signed him.

"But he has looked good in the sessions, which was great to see after all he's been through. I believe that a holiday in pre-season is the best route. He will be like a new signing for next season. He has great technical ability and will be a real asset."