Alan Pardew has claimed that Moussa Sissoko can take on a leadership role for Newcastle United this season.

The Magpies boss believes that the club lost a key leader on the pitch when Yohan Cabaye joined Paris Saint-Germain in January, but is confident that Sissoko can fill the void created by his fellow Frenchman's departure.

"Cabaye was our leader on the pitch in the way he pulled the strings and dictated the pace," Pardew told reporters. "Moussa is a different type of player but he can lead us with his spirit and his drive.

"They are his strengths. He has such tremendous power and in the Premier League that is so important.

"He's a huge character as well as a very important player for us, and we will see more of his character this year."

Newcastle return to action against Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon.