Magpies ready for Bordeaux test

Newcastle United will go in search of their first win in Group D tonight when they host French side Bordeaux.

After a 0-0 draw away to Maritimo in Portugal, the Magpies must now make their home advantage count if they are to progress to the knockout stage. However, it won't be an easy task against the in-form visitors. Bordeaux are top of the group after a convincing 4-0 win against Club Brugge, and Francis Gillot's team are also unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season.

Speaking ahead of the match, Newcastle boss Alan Pardew said: "They've put themselves as favourites for the group with their victory at Brugge.

"But nevertheless, for us it's a home game. We're very strong at home, regardless of the opposition, and we'll be looking to win the game."

Having scouted the French leagues and made a host of signings from across the channel in recent transfer windows, Pardew says his staff's knowledge of Bordeaux is good. The French contingent of players within his team also provided feedback on their opponents. He said: "Our own knowledge of Bordeaux is quite extensive.

"But individually, it's nice to get a couple of comments from the guys about them. It just adds to our armoury of knowledge.

" It wil be interesting to see what side Bordeaux play. We have a good idea. We think it will be their strongest side, so we know what to expect."

One of the players to give feedback was midfielder Yohan Cabaye. The 26-year-old faced Bordeaux on numerous occasions during his time with Lille. He said: "I was able to tell him [Pardew] that they're a very good club, and that they've got some very good players, and also a very good manager.

"Technically they're very good, and they score a lot of goals as well."

The France international also experienced playing in the Europa League with his previous club, and believes Newcastle will benefit from being in the competition.

He said: "It's really important to play properly in this competition. I think the Europa League will give many experiences for every player, especially the young players.

"So we have to be focussed on the game tomorrow, to win the game."

Team news

Newcastle will be without defensive duo Steven Taylor (calf) and Fabricio Coloccini (hamstring) for the game, but Danny Simpson could return to the side after recovering from a hamstring injury.