Former Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is backing Ryan Fraser to make a big difference for the Toon this season.

Writing for The Sun, Pardew stated: "There's no question, Newcastle have bought well in the truncated summer off-season.

"As well as Callum Wilson and Jeff Hendrick, I also feel Ryan Fraser will be pivotal to their success this season.

"Fraser could bring a new dimension to Andy Carroll's game.

"I worked with Andy and I genuinely believe if he can stay fit, he could thrive — particularly with the service of the two Bournemouth signings alongside him.

"There are grounds to be very optimistic for the Magpies.

"If they can remain disciplined at the back, they have goals and pace in the final third.

"It would be fair to say that my other old club, West Ham, didn't really seem to have any spark."