Ben Arfa targets more starts

Hatem Ben Arfa is frustrated at not being in the starting line-up at Newcastle but has vowed to break into the team.

The 24-year-old has not been a regular starter under Alan Pardew since recovering from a double leg fracture he sustained in 2010.

However, he has shown glimpses of the talent that saw him rated so highly in France as a youngster, most notably with his stunning solo strike against Blackburn in the FA Cup.

It is that type of form the France international wants to show more regularly in a Magpies shirt.

"I am frustrated at not being able to play, but I won't go and start an argument with the coach about it, because I know that I will only lose," he told L'Equipe.
Patient

"I am working as hard as possible in training and I will be ready for the moment I will be needed. It's a difficult situation for me because I love football so much.

"I will be patient and hopefully that will pay off."

Pardew has won plaudits for the way he has stamped his authority over a squad that he inherited from Chris Hughton.

Ben Arfa's respect for him is clear and he reveals the Pardew has not adopted the arm around the shoulder approach with him.

"No he has not, but I respect his choices," he added. "I'm continuing to work in training and be a good team-mate. I am working harder than ever to get a place both in and out of training."
Philosophy

The former Marseille winger admits his philosophy on football differs slightly from his manager's, but that he will try and combine both of their styles.

"I will respect his authority and keep my philosophy whether I play or not," he continued.

"For me football is a game based on lots of movements and passes. The coach likes the long, direct game. He often says, "cross it in the box" but I completely respect that philosophy.

"I will not start any arguments, my time will come and I just have to be patient. I am ready both physically and mentally."

 

Apologies, just noticed the other thread.