Pardew named manager of season

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has been named the Barclays Premier League's manager of the season.

The Magpies have confirmed that the 50-year-old had been honoured after steering the club into fifth place heading into the final game of the season and still in with a chance of Champions League qualification.

Pardew was appointed by owner Mike Ashley in December 2010 after the controversial dismissal of predecessor Chris Hughton, the man who had guided Newcastle back into the top flight at the first attempt.

Initially dismissed as just another member of the so-called 'Cockney Mafia', Pardew has won over his doubters to preside over a remarkable campaign which has included derby victory at Sunderland, a 3-0 defeat of Manchester United and a sensational 2-0 victory at Chelsea.

His astute dealings in the transfer market have brought the likes of Yohan Cabaye, Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse to the club and helped to produce a brand of football which has excited the Toon Army and ensured a return to European football next season.