Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew feels that Tim Krul's injury set-back provides understudy Rob Elliot a great "opportunity" to show his ability.

Krul injured his ankle in the Mapgies' 1-0 win over Metalist Kharkiv in the Europa League on Thursday and is expected to miss their clash with Southampton.

Pardew told the club's official website: "One door closes and one opens and for Robbie, it's a much-deserved door because he's really done terrific on the training ground here.

"[He has]played some Europa League games earlier in the season and cemented his place in the hearts of our fans.They know he's good enough and now there's an opportunity for him."

Newcastle are currently 16th in the Premier League, just three points clear of the relegation zone.