Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is eager to tackle Europa League opponents Maritimo.

Victory against the Portuguese side would guarantee the Magpies' qualification for the knockout phase of the competition and help to cushion the blow of Saturday's 2-1 loss to Swansea.

Pardew said: "We certainly don't want to lose three home games on the trot, that would be a blow.

"Maritimo is a big game for us because if we can win it, it guarantees qualification.

"That's what we need to do, get one hurdle out of the way and then look for our first win away from home in the Premier League in the next game.

"They are the two immediate hurdles in front of us."