Pardew: Cabaye relationship 'great' despite Arsenal affair

The former Lille midfielder nearly left St James' Park following a bid from the Gunners, but has since regained both his position in the Magpies' side and the faith of his boss

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has revealed that his relationship with midfielder Yohan Cabaye remains "great", even though the 27-year-old tried to force through a move to Arsenal.

The France international missed the Magpies’ opening two Premier League fixtures after the Gunners lodged a £12 million bid during the summer, but has since returned to the starting XI and repaired his relationship with his manager.


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“That was a difficult situation because I’ve got a great relationship with Yohan,” Pardew told the Evening Chronicle.

“When a player comes in and is trying to force a move, which really and truly he was trying to do – which happens at other clubs, we’re not the only club that’s happened to – then it’s difficult and we had some words.

“I told him my opinion but the most important thing when you get through that process is coming out the other side that you’re still intact. Fortunately, me and Yohan have come through that intact and that’s important.”

Newcastle are sitting in 11th place in the Premier League table following a solid start to the season but face a tricky test against in-form Liverpool on Saturday.