Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given says Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley was spot on with the appointment of Alan Pardew.

Handing him a long-term contract was a masterstroke too, according to the Ireland goalkeeper.

"The most successful manager of my time was Sir Bobby Robson and he was also the longest-serving manager in my time there so there's a lot to be said for stability," he told the Sunday Sun.

"Look at Alan Pardew - he's got a long-term contract there as well, so I think it can only be good for the club.

"The manager should take the credit.

"He's done a great job - he has also been intelligent and brought in John Carver and Steve Stone, both Geordies."