Alan Explains Sale

Alan Pardew explains that he feels the imminent sale of David James is the right thing to do for the future of the club.

Giving his reasoning behind allowing David to go to Manchester City for an undisclosed fee, he explains:

"While you never like to see a player of David's quality leave your club this is a move which, when you look at the bigger picture, is suitable for all parties.

"From our point of view, and I feel sure our supporters will understand this, we had to bring in some revenue to reinvest in the playing staff before it was too late.

"I was not prepared to just shrug my shoulders and let things drift along and positive action had to be taken to move things forward.

"The sale is in no way a reflection of David's ability or character - don't forget I made him captain recently - but it was a case of prioritising.

"The fact is that the money from this transfer will fund the acquisition of players that I feel will increase our chances of promotion at the first attempt - and that is the sole reasoning behind my agreeing to it.

"Obviously people will have to wait and see who those players are, but I am confident that in the long run, disappointed as we are to be losing an England international, this move will benefit the club.

"I am looking to bring in another keeper, and I am also looking to strengthen the outfield to a considerable degree so we can progress as soon as possible."