Pardew's cool on Jose Enrique impasse despite Liverpool interest

Newcastle defender Jose Enrique is refusing to open talks on a new contract until the club guarantee their Barclays Premier League safety.

Manager Alan Pardew says he is relaxed about Enrique's unwillingness to commit his future beyond the 18 months left on his current deal, but there must be fears that Liverpool or Aston Villa will pounce if negotiations remain on hold

The Spanish left back, who was in the squad relegated two years ago, has been outstanding this season but Pardew said: 'Jose has made it quite clear to us that until we're safe he doesn't want to open any discussions and we're comfortable with that, it makes sense for us.'

Should Enrique, 25, stay at St James' Park, Pardew insists he would have a great chance of being called up by World Cup winners Spain.

The Newcastle boss said: 'Knowing Jose, it would be a big ambition of his to get in that Spain team and he's in a great place in terms of profile. This is a big club and I don't see any reason why he can't get in the squad from this position.'

Source: Daily Mail

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