Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew knows they face a massive test against Manchester United striker Robin van Persie today.

The Magpies' Demba Ba already has six goals to his name this season, while United's flying Dutchman Van Persie has seven, and Pardew sees similarities between the two.

He said: "Van Persie's confidence levels set him apart at the moment. He is one of those players who actually believes he's the best, and that's dangerous.

"Usually even when things are not going well and they are missing chances, they still think they are going to score.

"Demba is a little bit like that - he has that kind of attitude. There will be great strikers on view on Sunday, for sure.

"There will be so much ability on the pitch, you can't help but think there are going to be some great moments in the game - hopefully more for us than them."