Newcastle are third in the table after 11 games and only a point behind Manchester United. Along with Manchester City they are the only other unbeaten side in the league. The Toon boss has only made seven changes to his starting XI this season, fewer than any other team in the league. The back four and goalkeeper have been the same for every game and Pardrew believes that has been key to their impressive run. He told The Independent on Sunday: "It's certainly helped to have that continuity in the side, particularly the back four who have been outstanding together as a unit. "They've developed a very good understanding with each other. Continuity is great for confidence within the team and that has definitely contributed to our good start. "That said, our entire squad is of huge importance. "Against Everton, for example, where we had to make changes due to injury, I was delighted with the way other players such as Danny Guthrie came in and fitted seamlessly into the team."
