MOUSSA Sissoko’s Premier League profile has risen faster than Newcastle United ever expected, admits Alan Pardew.

The United new boy (pictured right) set up Papiss Cissé on his debut and then followed it up with two goals to down Chelsea at St James’ Park last weekend.

It is a remarkable impact from a player who had never played outside France’s Ligue 1.

And, while Pardew had confidence that the French midfielder would hit the ground running, even he is surprised that he has done so well. United’s extensive background work on potential targets is carried out with one eye on how long it will take the players to settle.

So while Sissoko and Yoan Gouffran have been able to slot straight in, Pardew is taking a softly-softly approach with Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa – who may take a shade longer to come to terms with Premier League physicality.

It is all part of the process, Pardew insists. And having seen Sylvain Marveaux take time to settle, he never takes it for granted that players will make a flying start to life in England.

“Sylvain Marveaux we’ve had for a long time and he’s taken time (to adapt), but he’s beginning to grasp it and he did a nice little cameo again at the weekend,” Pardew said.

“Some players can and some players can’t (fit in straight away) and you have to find time for those players who don’t find it easy.

“With Sissoko in particular, he’s got a physique that bodes well for the Premier League and an energy system that’s geared to the Premier League and I think that’s what’s made him settle so quickly.

“I think the game he’s had (against Chelsea) has probably taken him to perhaps a little bit higher profile than we expected at this stage, but we’ll take that and hopefully he can build on it.”

MARK DOUGLAS