YOHAN Cabaye says a burning desire to repay Alan Pardew’s faith in him has fired his fine start to life at Newcastle United.

The France midfielder is yet to fully adapt to the cut and thrust of the Premier League but has already scored two spectacular goals, and he has played a big part in United’s record-equalling early season unbeaten run.

Cabaye is at Clairefontaine for tests on a groin injury, but national boss Laurent Blanc told the French media yesterday that he would not be sending the midfielder back to Tyneside despite his fitness issues.

He believes there is still “hope” that Cabaye may feature in the second of France’s friendlies against Belgium next week – which will give hope to United fans who want him back in time for the crunch clash with Manchester City.

No doubt the former Lille man – who says he has settled “perfectly” on Tyneside – will be equally desperate to play in United’s biggest game of the season.

“Things are going very well for me, especially with the coach,” Cabaye said.

“Before I signed for the club I spoke to him (Pardew) and I really felt that he wanted me to come, and that he thought it could work out for me.

“That pleased me a lot and I’m trying to give my all so that he’s not disappointed, because he has faith in me and he’s the one who came and got me.

“I’ve felt good here from the first training session, I like it here and get on with everyone. I’m really impressed with what we’ve done since the start of the season.”

Cabaye’s sizzling form has been mirrored by Newcastle’s, although the 25-year-old believes United will only know how good they are after their testing November programme with games against both Manchester sides and Chelsea.