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Pardew Plotting Atromitos Victory
Written by Newcastle Utd
Alan Pardew is targeting victory over Atromitos in the Europa League on Thursday night, but knows it will be no simple task
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Club Reporter
Alan Pardew knows it will be no walk in the park for his Newcastle United side on Thursday night, as they bid to qualify for the group stage of the Europa League.
The Magpies are favourites to triumph in the second leg of their fourth qualifying round tie against Atromitos, after the teams played out a 1-1 draw in Athens last week.
But, having already experienced the threat of their Greek opponents at first hand, and pitting his wits against a manager - Dusan Bajevic - with almost 30 years experience under his belt, Pardew admits the result is not a foregone conclusion.
"Last week we got what I thought was a positive result," explained United's boss.
"I know a few of the fans will have watched it at home on television, but I don't think you can appreciate the heat we had to play under - it really was intense. And it won't be in Newcastle, that's for sure.
"Our energy levels can go up, we will have to be patient, pass the ball and make sure we are educated in how we find solutions to get the win.
"You would like to think that you won't be surprised. They have got a couple of very good players, ones who can travel with the ball and that is always difficult for teams.
"The manager has got vast experience, and that worries me a little bit.
"I think he is one of the most experienced managers in the Champions League, so I will be watching him closely and seeing what tactical little tricks he tries in the game.
"The disadvantage I think we have is probably with him because he will have sensed what we are about and will come up with a game plan to make it very difficult for us."
Once again, Pardew is expected to make changes to his starting line-up, ensuring more members of his squad receive valuable game time.
And the manager revealed: "We will put a side out that we think is going to win.
"We've got 24 pros here and they are all going to be used, whether that's the Europa League, Premier League, FA Cup or League Cup, and they must all be good enough.
"We are paying them good money to be professionals here, so we have to get our use and money out of them for the Club.
"The Club wants to win on Thursday and we will put out a side which we think can win the game."
Tickets for Thursday's fixture are on sale on the night, with cash-only turnstiles open. For more information, click here