Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew insists new director of football Joe Kinnear can be an ally.

Kinnear has been charged with the task of implementing the summer transfer plan drawn up in discussions with Pardew and chief scout Graham Carr, and the manager is hoping he will be able to fight his corner with the sportswear magnate.

Pardew said: "It is very simple for me: if Joe can persuade Mike to invest in the right manner, then that will be the best outcome for us.

"As well as we have done in the transfer market, there is always room for improvement.

"I have spoken to Joe and had a couple of meetings with him. I have told him what I think the weaknesses in the squad are.

"Let's be fair, it's a squad, not a side, and I have told him I need to strengthen, and I have a couple of ideas."