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Pardew Praises Papiss
Written by Newcastle Utd
Alan Pardew has hailed Papiss Cisse's work-rate as the striker looks to end a five-game wait for a goal at Old Trafford on Boxing Day
By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter
On Boxing Day Papiss Cisse will return to Old Trafford, the Theatre of Dreams where got off the mark for the season, looking for another kick-start to a stuttering campaign in front of goal.
And he does so with the full backing of his manager Alan Pardew, who has praised the way the Senegalese striker has continued to work for the team despite only managing four goals in his first full season at St. James' Park after netting 13 goals in 14 appearances last term.
Cisse was visibly frustrated when he was substituted in the second half of Saturday's 1-0 win over Queens Park Rangers having enjoyed little reward for another energetic display alongside Demba Ba.
But having scored once against Manchester United already this season - in the Capital One Cup in September - the 27-year-old will look to repeat the trick on Wednesday in the Barclays Premier League.
And Pardew believes the goals will come if Cisse continues to display the same determination and effort for Newcastle as he has throughout his barren spell.
"I think Papiss is just a victim of our injury programme, if I'm honest," said the Magpies boss.
"Without (Hatem) Ben Arfa and (Yohan) Cabaye we've lacked a bit of flair and quality in the final third and of course if you've got that it creates moments for Papiss to finish.
"He hasn't had a lot moments in games but his work-rate, his commitment to the cause, cannot be faulted and we continue to work with him and hopefully he'll get the goals soon."
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