Alan Pardew: “I don’t think I am alone in thinking the Europa League is misconceived to a degree in terms of the way it is put together.
“You play so many games and then the Champions League teams who miss out after the group stages fall down to the Europa League – what is all that about?
“Then there is another load of games. I think it really needs to be looked at to be honest.
“We are in it and we will try to win every competition we are in, but there is not a lot of money in the Europa League, not unless you win the thing. Not compared to the Premier League.
“There is a risk involved. I have to make sure the team I put out on Thursday gets a result, and then the team which plays Chelsea is of a certain level.
“We are probably playing a side which will challenge for the title.
“So we have to be at our best 48 hours and a five-hour flight from Greece later.
“This quick turnaround is not ideal. I cannot think of having to play two games in 48 hours too many times in my career.
“We have tried to get on with it without whinging or moaning.
“The authorities have said that is where it is. There is nothing we can do.
“Atromitos have not started their season so it has been difficult to find out about them.
“However, we have done our homework and tried to get some footage of last year, which has given us an insight to what they are all about.
“They are very well organised, that is probably the thing which stands out.
“You could say they are like us in that they overreached last season by finishing fourth.
“You cannot under-estimate the spirit they have in their group.
“Of course I am looking forward to the challenge. Newcastle United should be in Europe and I am glad we have given the fans just that.”