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Alan Pardew has warned Premier League defences that Gabriel Obertan can be “unplayable” this season - if he retains his current levels of confidence.

The Toon manager revealed that he has been privately working on the former Bordeaux and Man United winger’s morale.

And he feels that after seeing him grab the winner against Leicester City he can prove to be a thorn in the side of Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday (1.30pm kick off).

Pardew is delighted to see him bounce back but admitted that he was up for sale last season.

He said: “Let’s just say that events last year when we weren’t winning and he wasn’t in the team were such that we might have listened to offers for him.

“But when he came back in pre-season and we’d assembled a new squad, I knew he could be part of it – I told him that. From the moment we set foot into pre-season I have been trying to build his confidence.”

Pardew felt that Obertan was a key man in the season when the Magpies finished fifth.

He saw him as the outlet on the wing who could take some of the pressure away from his side.

Pardew reflected: “This is a player that played a big part in the season when we finished fifth.

“He’s not been the same since that year because he’s had injuries and he’s in and out. He’s a confidence player.

“When he has confidence he can be unplayable at times. He’s created the moments for us at times.”

Meanwhile Siem de Jong has indicated he faces another eight weeks on the sidelines.

He said: “On my way back to Newcastle I’ve just saw the surgeon in London and all looks good.

“I can slowly start building up strength again and start walking without crutches.

“Still a couple of months to go but I’m working hard and I’m sure I will get back stronger.”