Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew has assured Gabriel Obertan he still has a part to play at St James' Park. The French winger, who joined the Magpies from Manchester United in 2011, has struggled to make an impact on Tyneside but played in the Capital One Cup clash with Leeds United on Wednesday.

On the 24-year-old's future, with a loan move still being mooted, Pardew told the Evening Chronicle: "At times Gabby has come in for a bit of stick here.

"His pace is still a real asset to us - especially when we take the lead. He can come off the bench and stretch teams.

"He came off the bench against Leeds and could have had a couple of goals."

He added on a player who looks likely to stay put until at least January: "Gabby's desperate to do well here.

"We have more options now. I have to be able to make changes."