Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has revealed that Jose Mourinho has sent him a message wishing him luck with the new season.

Pardew has admitted that it was nice to be acknowledged by the Real Madrid manager ahead of the Magpies' return to European football with a Europa League qualifying tie against Atromitos tonight.

Pardew said: "I had a text from Jose Mourinho on Tuesday, 'Wishing you all the best', and it's things like that which make you realise things are good. We are getting noticed.

"I don't usually get texts from him, perhaps the fact we are in Europe and did well last year is part of that.

"It's nice for everyone that other managers are looking out at us. I think we are doing a good job."

A number of Newcastle players are expected to be rested for the trip to Greece.