Pardew Says Ashley Wanted Him Out!

Last updated : 08 January 2015 By Footy Mad - Editor

Pardew was confirmed as the Palace boss on January 3 after signing a three-and-a-half year contract, replacing Neil Warnock who was dismissed just after Christmas.

Alan Pardew: "For me personally and professionally it was the right time, and the right time for Newcastle. It was my decision.

"(Palace chairman) Steve Parish met the (buy-out) clause in my contract and I had a decision to make and for me it was the right decision.

"Four years under that type of monetary situation and the fact (Newcastle) are trying to push (on), and the history, it was difficult for a manager.

"But I left a good club with fantastic professionals and staff and players, who were phenomenal – also the fans.

"There has been a lot of talk – a lot of it completely off the mark – yes, you get criticism from the stands but never once did I sense the criticism outside the ground.

"I had tremendous support during my time there and I want to thank all the fans. My resilience and character as a manager has grown as a nature of the club.

"Palace wanted me to be their manger, Newcastle told me the clause had been met and I simply had a choice. I'm a good fit for Palace.

"The players need a lift. Hopefully my arrival and a couple of players will do that. Hopefully we can go on a run that gets us at least to safety. Realistically, this year, one place above relegation would be enough for us to build this club again."

"The chairman and board are keen to bring in a player or two and I know they're working hard to do that. We have to wait and see. It's very complicated to secure a player, particularly a striker. I spoke to Steve and said we're going to need some funding because we need new players, and he agreed."