Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has insisted that he will only hand Loic Remy his debut once he is match-fit.

Remy has joined the Magpies on loan for the current campaign, but after being unable to take part in training due to a calf injury, Pardew has revealed that it might be September before the club's supporters get a first glimpse of the Frenchman.

The 52-year-old told Sky Sports News: "Remy is still on the road to recovery. Man City will come too soon, and so might West Ham and Fulham.

"It's becoming increasingly likely that he will be unavailable - he's not kicked a ball yet, and only been running. It's very important that we make sure he's right."

The former Marseille striker scored six goals in 14 Premier League appearances for Queens Park Rangers last season.