Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has blamed a new television deal for Mark Hughes's sacking as Queens Park Rangers manager this morning.

Premier League clubs will benefit from bumper payments during next season's campaign, and Pardew believes that this is making owners more desperate than ever to stay in the league.

Pardew also believes that Hughes's sacking won't be the last for teams in and around the relegation zone.

"It's difficult. The new TV contract that's coming in, the extra funds for next year, I think is putting extra pressure on boards and they are reacting," said Pardew.

"You can't afford not to be in the Premier League this year and Mark might not be the only one [to be sacked]."

Harry Redknapp has been installed as the favourite for the vacant post at QPR.