Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew says he'll sacrifice the Europa League to keep the club up.

A controversial defeat at Wigan has been followed by a four-goal hammering at Manchester City that leaves Pardew and his players just four points above the drop zone, close enough to bring owner Mike Ashley into a nervous sweat.

"We have done well in the Europa League, but it can't detract from the Premier League," he said.

"We have to make sure we are safe.

"We need two victories at least, and maybe a third or a fourth to get ourselves into a strong position."