NEWCASTLE MANAGER ALAN Pardew did little for Anglo-Irish relations yesterday when he heaped praise on ‘Englishman’ Brendan Rodgers.
Pardew, who worked with Rodgers at Reading, claimed he was delighted with the progress his former colleague had made.
“If you’ve got an accent, then suddenly bring in a different system on the pitch, you’re applauded and given a top job in the Premier League, so it’s nice to see an Englishman get a shout for once,” Pardew said, before adding:
“Well, actually, he’s Irish, so I beg your pardon Brendan.”
Despite the gaffe, it is clear that Pardew is a big fan of the Antrim native’s work.
“He’s always had a very clear vision of how the game should be played and he’s stuck to his principles and I admire him very much for that.”
The Newcastle boss also praised Swansea’s possession-style football, which has seen Rodgers tipped by many to be named Premier League Manager of the Year.
“You have to say that Swansea have attacked the game and been encouraged to play and taken chances when perhaps they shouldn’t take chances, and done it admirably,” he said.
Swansea host Newcastle at 16.30 today knowing victory will take them above the magical 40 point barrier.
For Newcastle, avoiding defeat will see them leapfrog Chelsea into fifth place in the Premier League.
