ALAN Pardew has moved to reassure Danny Simpson after the full-back admitted he fears for his Newcastle United future.

The defender told Newcastle Magistrates Court this week he thought his time at St James’ Park was ending.

Simpson has 18 months left on his contract and, with talks over an extension having long since stalled, said he expected to be transfer-listed in the near future – leaving possibly as soon as January.

He said in court: “There is a chance I will be moving, whether in the transfer window in January or in the summer.

“I have 18 months left on my contract and I don’t think it will go past that.”

Pardew, though, insisted the player was on course to get a new deal “quite quickly” if he continues his recent form.

The Magpies boss said: “He has been a great players for us and he will continue to be.

“He wants to earn a new contract and if he keeps playing like he is there is a good chance he will get one.”

Simpson’s comments were an attempt at mitigation as he unsuccessfully tried to avoid a driving ban after being caught speeding.

The Mancunian argued he might soon need his car to travel to training at another club, pleaded poverty when it was suggested he get a chauffeur and cited domestic problems.

Daughter Skye-Lorena was born six weeks prematurely in July and spent her first few months at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary.

Shortly after being released she contracted a virus, and was only released again on Friday. Simpson claimed it caused tension with his girlfriend Stephanie.

Happily, Skye-Lorena is now recovering, though she still requires regular hospital check-ups.