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Boss Calls For Home Support
Written by Newcastle Utd
Alan Pardew has urged United's fans to create a vociferous European atmosphere on Thursday night against Bordeaux
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Club Reporter
Alan Pardew has urged United's fans to create a vociferous European atmosphere on Thursday night against Bordeaux (8.05pm kick-off).
The Magpies' French opponents are yet to taste defeat this season and opened their Europa League Group D campaign with an eye-catching 4-0 win over Bruges a fortnight ago.
But Pardew knows that Newcastle are a force to be reckoned with on Tyneside, and appealed for a large home crowd to turn up and inspire his troops to three crucial points.
"Bordeaux's victory at Bruges has probably put themselves as favourites for the group, and a fine victory it was too," said the manager.
"They are a very good Ligue 1 side, who have had some terrific results and are in great form.
"But nevertheless, for us it is a home game. We are very, very strong at home, regardless of the opposition, and we will be looking to win the game.
"It's the first time at home in this competition where I think our fans will take it seriously too, and that will be important for us.
"The atmosphere at the stadium is important for us to help us focus our minds.
"In European games your concentration goes up a level and you need to be ready for this type of opposition.
"We respect them and are looking forward to playing against them, but we expect to win."
With a number of French players in his dressing room, Pardew revealed he has picked their brains about the threat that Bordeaux will offer on Thursday night.
And that, combined with his own scouting and analysis team, means the Magpies go into the tie fully prepared.
"We've asked one or two of the players," he said.
"Our own knowledge of Bordeaux is quite extensive and we think we know what they've got.
"But additionally it is quite nice to get comments from the guys here about them.
"It adds to our armoury and knowledge, and it is important that we have good knowledge of the opposition at all times.
"It will be interesting to see what side Bordeaux play. We have a good idea and think it will be their strongest side, so we know what to expect."
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