Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot believes that his side are making progress in their preparation for the Premier League season.

The Magpies beat Blackpool in their pre-season clash at Bloomfield Road thanks to a strike from Shola Ameobi.

Elliot told the club's official website: "For us to kick on with a win and a clean sheet from a tough game is excellent. Blackpool's season starts next week, so that was them pretty much ready to go in the Championship.

"Towards the end they put a bit of pressure on us but I thought in the first 45 minutes especially, we showed a difference in class.

"We made a great start and I thought the way we kept the ball and dominated the game bodes well for the season ahead."

Newcastle face Manchester City in their Premier League opener on August 19.