The official line is that the midfielder is struggling with an Achilles injury, but there are rumours there could be a meeting with PSG officials in Paris.
It's the FA Cup and Pardew is likely to ring the changes - as he ALWAYS does - which is why his FA Cup record at Newcastle is shocking.
Pardew revealed that the influential midfielder picked up an injury in the 1-0 loss at West Brom, yet it was one of the few games this season the 27-year-old France international actually completed the match.
Pardew's philosophy in the cup competitions has meant that the Geordie fans still struggle to understand his thinking.
We are NOT going to win the Premier League, so why does he continue to frown on the FA Cup and League Cup.
We don't have Europe this season, so isn't this the ideal time to push for a trophy.
He also indicated that Tim Krul is unlikely to play after picking up a shoulder problem.
It means that United’s back-up goalie Rob Elliot will come in from the cold and start his first game since the 2-0 win over Morecambe in the Capital One Cup.
Pardew: “I’m a little bit concerned about my goalkeeper. He’s doubtful.
“Yohan Cabaye’s injured. He picked up an injury on Wednesday, I’d have liked to have subbed him, but I didn’t have any left.”
Isn't it amazing how the prospect of the FA Cup seems to fill the United treatment room.
It has done for the entire three years Pardew has been at the club.
And his blatant lies as regards "injuries" still staggers supporters.
Hatem Ben Arfa was reported to miss the Swansea game because of a virus, when we all knew he had to be at court 8.30am the following day for a court appearance.